Support from Friends

Getting healthier and reaching your wellness goals can be challenging. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone.

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Getting healthier and reaching your wellness goals can be challenging. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone. Today, you will learn how your friends, family members, coworkers, community group and coach can support you in reaching your health and wellness goals. You will also learn about the different types of support, and how to deal with unsupportive people.

Emotional 

Expressions of compassion and love

Example: You went out last night and didn’t stick to your healthy eating plan at the restaurant. You call a friend who listens to your feelings and provides support and compassion. 

Instrumental 

Offering a helping hand or any other tangible support 

Example: Your partner chooses to work from home two mornings a week to watch the kids so you can go to the gym. 

Informational 

Providing beneficial information, advice or suggestions 

Example: Your local YMCA teaches a healthy cooking class. 

Appraisal 

Feedback that you can use for self-evaluation

Example: Your kids brag about your delicious home cooked meals. 

Everyone needs a different type of support and you may not need all four types; however, having some type of support network can make a big difference in your success! Take some time to think about your support system and the type of support that is most meaningful to you. Once you determine this, write down the names of family members, friends and coworkers that you want to include in your support network. 

The first step to getting support is to talk with those you’d like to have support from. Help them understand what you’re doing and why. Have a conversation about what you would find helpful and things that may be less helpful. A few things to consider when talking with friends and family about support is to:

• Explain why you’re working hard to live a healthier lifestyle

• Invite them to participate by:

  • Being active with you

  • Looking for recipes and cooking with you

  • Grocery shopping with you

• Be specific in how they can support you, for example:

  • Ask your spouse to buy fewer sweets

  • Ask your sister or a friend to baby sit so you can attend a yoga class

  • Ask a coworker to go for a walk during your break

Getting the conversation going can sometimes be a challenge if you’re not sure what or how to say it. Be sure to check out the handout: “Asking for Support” for some examples on how to get the conversation started and more tips to consider when speaking with your loved ones.