When it comes to our mental health, natural supports are crucial. In fact, they’re central to who we are as human beings. Natural supports are the reciprocal relationships that we develop in our everyday life. They include close connections, such as family and friends, as well as broader connections, like neighbours and community organizations.

These connections are fundamental to our emotional and psychological wellbeing. They promote resiliency, social integration and healthy behaviours. Natural supports are also important for our ability to feel supported during moments of celebration and struggle.

Below are a few tips from our Clinical team on reaching out and how to be a good natural support to others.

What do I do when I need help?

Reach out to a natural support. You can start with mapping connections by asking yourself, “Who are my people?” Who are your personal and professional supports?

Other things you can do:

• Utilize a coping skill. For example, meditation, physical activity, writing, spending time with a friend, etc.

• Breathe!

What do I do when someone calls me?

You are also a natural support to someone else. When someone reaches out for support, we might worry about doing or saying the right things. Here a few supportive skills you can use:

• Try and stay calm

• Be present, focus on the moment

• Listen carefully

• Focus on being a helper, not a fixer

• Check in with yourself. Ask yourself if have the capacity to listen.

• Ask the person what they need from the conversation; someone to listen or are they looking for advice

• Think about what you can offer the other person.

• Empathy is your superpower

• Listen without judgement.

• Trust yourself, that person called you for a reason. You have the skills that you need to be a support.

More Resources

Build natural support skills and confidence in the interactive Mental Health Natural Supports Simulation created by United Way Calgary. Though the scenarios given are youth-focused, they can also be applied for people at different stages of life.

Visit Connections First for guides and resources on natural supports. Connections First is focused on understanding how natural supports can influence the well-being of children, youth and the communities in which they live, and sharing learning and resources about the importance of natural supports.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please go to your closest hospital, call 911, or call the Crisis Centre at 403.266.HELP(4357).