Title: The Psychology of Perceived Social Support | Notre Dame College Online
Headings: The Psychology of Perceived Social Support
The Psychology of Perceived Social Support
Articles
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Types of Social Support
Emotional
Appraisal
Informational
Instrumental
Benefits of Social Support
Improving Perceived Social Support

Content: From mental health to physical health, believing you have a network of people to support you impacts you throughout life. A recent study published in Frontiers found that strong perceived social support from friends and family members reduced the risk of depressive symptoms in young adults. In fact, it played a bigger role than gender, self-esteem and sleep quality. The benefits don’t end in adolescence, though. Throughout life, strong social support can help individuals overcome intense mental health struggles. A study about depression, perceived social support and loneliness published in BMC Psychiatry stated, “We found substantial evidence from prospective studies that people with depression who perceive their social support as poorer have worse outcomes in terms of symptoms, recovery and social functioning.” While many studies have established perceived social support’s role in mental health, others have provided insight into incredible physical health outcomes. According to the American Institute of Stress (AIS), “Laboratory studies show that when subjects are subjected to stress, emotional support reduces the usual sharp rise in blood pressure and increased secretion of damaging stress related hormones.” This can lessen the disease risks associated with stress that often plague people later in life. AIS also highlighted other study results that emphasize the importance of perceived social support on physical health.