Support & Belief Systems: What Do You Believe? Who Has Your Back?

I'm sure it is no surprise to hear that human beings are social, herd animals. We are designed to exist in groups and to interact with each other for survival. The need for social interactions and support has never seemed more apparent to me than it was during the pandemic when we were isolated from friends and family for long periods of time. We all suffered in one way or another. Phone calls and video calls such as zoom meetings seemed to increase as people were desperate to maintain connections. The inability to worship in person at church resulted in online services, but in-person small group meetings, like covenant groups, ceased. Some people lost their entire support systems, permanently. While zoom type meetings did help connectivity, the inability to physically be with people, to hug friends or family, or to gather, was stifling. For some it was even crippling. How did it affect you, emotionally, spiritually, physically? We may not yet be aware of all the long term effects of what we have just experienced. On the other hand, as devastating as the pandemic was, it was also enlightening. I believe it revealed much to people about who and what they had to rely on for support. Having a strong support system is important in maintaining mental health. So take an inventory. Who is your support system? Who has your back? Has it changed because of the pandemic? What changes have you already made, or need to make, to this system so that you can take care of yourself? It is ok to ask for help.

Belief Systems

What is your belief system? More importantly - when catastrophe strikes - or metaphorically speaking, the bottom drops out of your life box - what are your core beliefs, and can those beliefs serve as a way to endure the hardship and navigate your way to recovery? There are multiple belief systems. Ultimately these systems are the core principles that define who you are. It is the moral compass you follow. Difficulties arise when there are misalignments between beliefs and choices. So, what do you believe? What do you value? Do you believe in something greater than yourself? Do you believe in good versus evil? Do you believe we are on this earth for a brief time and then we cease to exist, or do you believe in an afterlife? Can you list the characteristics consistent with your values? Whatever you believe, this is what guides your choices and your choices of who you spend time with or allow to influence you. I like to think of my belief system as the tether that keeps my ship from floating aimlessly in an ocean. If I am tethered to this system, I am not lost. I may not be able to see what is beyond the waves that rock my boat, but I am certain that I am safe no matter what comes my way. All I must do in times of uncertainty is stay steady in the boat. If you are unsure about what your belief system is and you are unanchored, you can start the process of examining what makes you tick. What are the core beliefs you have that you know are non-negotiable? At the very least, being aware of your values and beliefs enables you to make healthy choices for you. Making healthy choices is a step toward self-care and when you align beliefs with life choices you experience integrity. Integrity is both a quality and a state of being. It is the quality of remaining true to your morality, and it is the state of being whole. Start examining your beliefs and value systems. Give yourself room to work on this, it may take some time. The important thing is starting. If you are feeling lost or overwhelmed with this topic and are curious about exploring your core beliefs, start by writing down thoughts you have about your existence, your relation to other people, your notion of life and the existence of a greater being. Awarness of your thoughts is a good starting point. We will continue this discussion topic in future blogs.

Healthy Support Systems

Healthy support systems will provide the following: • Common purpose• Growth• Educational Opportunities• • Social Interaction/Fellowship•• Encouragement• Accountability• Trust
Ask yourself if your support system meets these elements. If not, perhaps it is time to think about other support?

Types of Support Systems

There are many types of Support Systems There is a difference between your support system and belief system. The belief system, as discussed above, is foundational. It should determine the types of support systems you develop. Your support system should bolster your ability to stick to your beliefs, especially during the most stressful periods of your life. Here are a few examples of support systems: • Family• Friends • Religious groups/services • Common Interest Groups such as hobbies, philanthropy groups, overcoming addiction (AA, NA, Alanon) • Clubs: sports groups, card groups, retirement groups, travel clubs • Networking Groups • Emotional Support Groups
What are some of the support systems you rely on? Do you have the support you need? If not, perhaps this is a good time to explore what kind of support you might enjoy or need.

Types Of Support Systems

There are many types of Support Systems There is a difference between your support system and belief system. The belief system, as discussed above, is foundational. It should determine the types of support systems you develop. Your support system should bolster your ability to stick to your beliefs, especially during the most stressful periods of your life. Here are a few examples of support systems: • Family• Friends • Religious groups/services • Common Interest Groups such as hobbies, philanthropy groups, overcoming addiction (AA, NA, Alanon) • Clubs: sports groups, card groups, retirement groups, travel clubs • Networking Groups • Emotional Support Groups
What are some of the support systems you rely on? Do you have the support you need? If not, perhaps this is a good time to explore what kind of support you might enjoy or need.