(r) relationships. protection and social support

The 'Relationships' component within the PERMA model underscores the fundamental importance of positive social connections to human well-being.

These relationships not only enrich life. They also act as a crucial factor of protection and support, especially in times of difficulty.

Social Nature and Need for Linkage

Humans are social beings by nature, with an innate need for contact, belonging and socialization.

This need to be part of a group and to establish affective bonds is so fundamental that its absence or the experience of rejection can be profoundly damaging.

Rejection, in fact, can be a form of emotional torture, capable of destroying a person's well-being.

Therefore, building and maintaining positive relationships is essential.

Relationships as a Protective Shield

Meaningful interpersonal relationships are a powerful protective factor.

From birth, protection is sought in attachment figures such as parents.

This search for safety and security extends throughout life, where healthy relationships offer a refuge from stresses and challenges.

Feeling protected by emotional bonds contributes to a greater sense of security and emotional stability.

Support in Adversity

In addition to protection, positive relationships are an indispensable source of support, especially in the face of adversity.

Having people to provide support in difficult times is fundamental to cultivate resilience and the ability to face and overcome crises.

Social support helps to manage stress, find solutions and maintain a more hopeful outlook.

The Importance of Self-Care in Relationships

In order to build these healthy and supportive relationships, prior personal development work is essential.

The premise "if you don't love yourself, no one will love you for you" highlights the need to cultivate self-love, self-respect and self-worth before being able to establish balanced relationships with others.

The responsibility for generating these feelings lies with oneself, not with one's partner or others.

Going through life "with a full cup". That is to say, with a solid base of emotional well-being, allows us to interact with others from abundance and not from need.

Necessity, in the context of relationships, can be counterproductive and generate toxic dynamics.