SOCIAL SUPPORT

Social Support for Depression

Table of Contents

Introduction1

Social Support1

Role of social support in mental ill health2

Depression3

Prevalence3

Signs and symptoms of depression4

Diagnosis and Treatment5

Gender differences in depression and women5

Vulnerability and Intimacy6

Support from intimate relationships8

Other sources of social support10

Conclusion11

References12

Social Support for Depression

Introduction

Depression is a very common disease and the implications of these disease are not only limited to the person who is depressed but also for the ones around the person. The paper discusses depression in the context of social support. It sheds light on social support and defines the role that it can play in mental illnesses. It also clarifies why there is a need for social support and what are the possible sources from where a person can get social support. In addition, it defines depression by laying down the signs and symptoms of depression, the diagnosis and treatment and also the prevalence of the disease.

There is a relation between intimacy and vulnerability with depression. The paper discuses this and defines how these two concepts can act as a buffer against the stressful environment.

Social Support

Just like depression, the definition of social support also differs from person to person. On a very broad level, it may be defined as having close friends, family and peers that one can count on. This means that the person belong to a social network of people who may provide assistance when necessary (Piccinelli & Wilkinson, 2000). Social support includes various types of supports. These are tangible, companionship, emotional, and informational. Social support has important implications for both people with mental and physical health issues. The physical issues may include immobility and mortality and mental health issues may include problems such as depression and anxiety.

In this context, it is imperative to state that although the benefits f social support for mental and physical health issues cannot be undermined, there is still evidence to believe it is not a cent percent solution to the underlying problems.

In addition, to mental and physical problems, which is a very broad way of defining social support, it is something that helps a person in their ability to fight against all odds and take up the challenges of life in a positive way. There are certain events in each one of us life which are inevitable and beyond our control. These can be very difficult and distressing. It is through social support in the form of information, psychological support, emotional support, practical help that can aid a person in coping with life events & difficulties (Lai, 2004).

The limitation of social support may be attributed to cultural and gender differences in people with depression and the way that they take social support. Hence, it is imperative to establish the link between social support and mental illness in order to assess the positive role that it can play in managing depression.

Role of social support in mental ill health

Stressful events and failures are as much as part of our life as happy moments and victories. Social support is one of the best ...