Lesson 5: Creating a Supportive Environment for Mental Wellbeing
A supportive environment promotes positive mental health through relationships, physical spaces, and lifestyle habits.
Key elements include:
- Open and honest communication with trusted people
- Safe, calming places to relax and recharge
- Healthy boundaries to protect your energy
- Regular physical activity, nutritious food, and quality sleep
- Access to professional support when needed
Social connection is a critical protective factor for mental wellbeing.
By intentionally cultivating supportive environments, you foster resilience and ongoing mental health.
Resources & References:
- Connected: The Surprising Power of Our Social Networks and How They Shape Our Lives by Nicholas A. Christakis and James H. Fowler
https://www.amazon.com.au/Connected-Surprising-Networks-Lives-How-Everything/dp/0316036137 - Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T.B., & Layton, J.B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: a meta-analytic review. PLoS Med, 7(7), e1000316.
https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316
