Visions Journal

PDF | Vol. 6, No. 4 (2011)

In this issue of Visions, we examine the many faces and facets of social support. Social support—that is, being connected to others who care—is an important part of overall health and well-being. The positive effects of social support in mental health and substance use are significant. But is any support good support? How can we make positive changes to our social supports? And how do technology and online communities affect social support? These are just a few of the themes we’ll explore.

Background

• Editor's Message
  (Sarah Hamid-Balma)

• Social Cures Have Good Side Effects
  (John Helliwell)

• Social Support
  (Nichole Fairbrother)

Experiences and Perspectives

• View from the Ruin
  (Julianne Kim)

• My Portfolio of Support
  (Ian Chovil)

• It’s Okay to Ask for Help
  (Robin Rebeiro)

Alternatives and Approaches

• Origami: Therapeutic magic
  (Rosemary Browne)

• Family Members Need Social Support: The Family Support Buddy Program
  (Sophia Kelly)

• Mental Health Camp: Breaking the silence, setting us free
  (Isabella Mori)

• Community Navigator: Bridging homeless outreach
  (Suzanne Gessner)

Regional Programs

• Eating Disorders and Social Support
  (Shelley Hine and Mimi Hudson)