People like to feel loved, wanted and supported. This is especially important for those going through stressful times or suffering from emotional disorders like depression. Emotional support doesn't stop problems like stress, anxiety and depression, but it makes them more tolerable and helps a sufferer deal with them more effectively.
Definition
MedlinePlus describes depression as persistent sadness. It can also involve frustration and anger. The feelings hang on for weeks or months and are severe enough to negative impact a person's life.
Stress is a reaction to problems and difficult or scary situations. It prepares your body to either escape or face the challenge, whether it's a physical threat, family argument or work deadline. HelpGuide.org, a self-help website, explains that stress can become a problem if you never get any relief.
Effects
A person's life is negatively affected by severe depression or stress. MedlinePlus explains that depression leads to low energy, increased or decreased appetite, feelings of hopelessness, excessive sleep, anxiety and isolation. This last effect may cause the sufferer to pull away from her emotional support system.
Stress causes concentration problems, lowered immunity, more frequent illness, muscle pain, stomach problems, excessive worry, agitation and an irritable mood, according to HelpGuide.org. The irritability may push supportive people away.
Support
Persons suffering from depression or stress can benefit from an emotional support system. A basic system consists of family members and friends. They can offer support to a depressed person by encouraging her to socialize and being available to talk when needed. A stressed-out person also benefits from being surrounded by understanding people. This gives him a place to vent his frustration rather than bottling it up. There are also in-person and online self-help groups for depression, stress and anxiety. In-person groups have meetings, while online support consists of forums and chat rooms. A mental health professional can provide emotional support when self-help is not enough.
Benefits
The American Institute of Stress (AIS) cites many benefits of emotional support. For example, stress can impair immune system function. A support system of family members and friends reduces stress and reduces this physical effect. AIS explains that support groups let people with certain emotional disorders network with others who have similar problems. They are united by a common issue, which helps them feel comfortable talking in the group. Other members may be able to share solutions from their personal experiences. Professional counselors provide a safe environment in which to discuss depression, stress and other issues and come up with solutions.
Treatment
Depression and stress may need professional treatment beyond friends, self-help groups and counseling. Severe symptoms may require anti-depressants or anti-anxiety drugs. A psychiatrist or other doctor prescribes the drugs. Other professionals, family members and friends can provide emotional support by encouraging the affected person to take the medication as directed. It is only effective if it is used regularly.
