How is social support defined?

Social support is defined as the assistance provided and the feeling of integration within a social network. This encompasses a variety of forms, including emotional support, practical help, and informational resources that individuals receive from their friends, family, and community. Effective social support can enhance well-being and mental health, particularly in challenging times such as during the perinatal period.

The concept emphasizes the networks individuals are part of and how these connections can provide both tangible and intangible forms of help. In the context of perinatal mental health, strong social support has been shown to buffer against stress and improve outcomes for mothers and families.

Other definitions focused on the absence of social interactions, financial support, or the experience of loneliness fail to capture the essence of social support, which is rooted in positive and interactive relationships that foster a sense of belonging and care. Understanding social support as integration within a social network highlights its crucial role in mental health and well-being during vulnerable periods.