After experiencing traumatic events such as war, natural disasters, accidents, violence, or abuse, individuals may experience symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including re-experiencing the event through intrusive memories, avoidance of triggers related to the event, negative changes in mood and thoughts, and hyperarousal. To cope with these effects, many individuals seek relational support from others. This can take the form of social support, such as talking to family members and friends about the trauma, or professional support, such as counseling or therapy. Relational support involves feeling safe, understood, and accepted by another person who is willing to listen without judgment and provide emotional comfort and practical assistance.
Studies have shown that relational support can be an important factor in psychological adaptation and resilience after exposure to trauma.
One study found that social support was associated with lower levels of PTSD symptoms among survivors of the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center. Another study found that higher levels of perceived social support were linked to better mental health outcomes among veterans exposed to combat-related trauma.
A meta-analysis of 52 studies found that social support was consistently associated with reduced risk of PTSD following traumatic events.
Not all forms of relational support are equally effective in promoting adaptation and resilience. Some types of support, such as avoidant coping strategies like distraction or denial, may actually hinder recovery. Similarly, relationships that are unsupportive or toxic can have negative impacts on mental health. It is therefore important for individuals to seek out healthy forms of relational support that promote healing and growth.
One way that relational support contributes to psychological adaptation is by helping individuals process their experiences and reframe them in a more adaptive way. By sharing their thoughts and feelings with others, they may gain new perspectives and insights that help them make sense of what happened and move forward. This process can also involve learning new coping skills, such as mindfulness or relaxation techniques, which can reduce stress and improve well-being.
Another way that relational support contributes to adaptation is by providing a sense of connection and belonging. After experiencing trauma, individuals may feel isolated and disconnected from others, leading to further difficulties in adjustment. Through receiving emotional support from friends and family members, they can feel understood and valued, which can lead to improved self-esteem and identity. In addition, this type of support can help individuals maintain healthy interpersonal relationships, which are critical for overall well-being.
Relational support can also provide practical assistance during times of difficulty. This may include helping with everyday tasks, such as childcare or grocery shopping, or connecting individuals with resources like medical care or legal services. These types of supports can be particularly helpful when individuals are struggling financially or physically after a traumatic event.
Relational support plays an important role in promoting psychological adaptation and resilience after exposure to trauma. It involves feeling safe, understood, and accepted by another person who provides emotional comfort and practical assistance without judgment. Healthy forms of relational support can promote healing and growth by processing traumatic experiences, providing a sense of connection and belonging, and offering practical assistance. Individuals should seek out these types of supports to enhance their recovery and well-being following traumatic events.
In what ways does relational support contribute to psychological adaptation and resilience after exposure to trauma?
Relational support is an important component of psychological adaptation and resilience after experiencing traumatic events. Research has shown that individuals who have strong social networks and receive support from their family members, friends, and community are more likely to cope with stressors effectively and recover from trauma (Bonanno & Diminich, 2013). The availability of relational support can provide individuals with social connections, emotional validation, and practical assistance during times of distress.