Welcome to Right-On with HFG Happy Families Support Network Inc. (HFG)
HFG is a not-for-profit support group that provides ongoing support to women and children who have experienced abuse
HFG is a free support group for women and children who have experienced abuse, run by women who have experienced abuse
The topic for today is – Rebuilding Social Network After Abuse
Definition of social network – a network of friends, colleagues, and other personal contacts
Now that you have started working on rebuilding your self-confidence, you are ready to start rebuilding your social network
Self-confidence will give you the strength and courage to speak up at support group meetings, and trust new friends
Self-confidence will help you to step out and join that exercise class at the community centre where you will meet new friends
When you have self-confidence you believe in yourself, and know that you have a lot to offer in a friendship
So what is your social network and who would you like to have in this network?
Your social network is made up of people who care about you and make it easy for you to be you
Your social network can include Family, friends, co-workers, neighbours and acquaintances
It is your choice who you include in your social network, but remember you must be able to be yourself when they’re around
How does your social network help you?
- Social network gives you someone to talk to and do things with so you don’t feel isolated
- Social network gives you accountability, once you’ve committed to a path or goal they help to keep you on track
- Social network gives you an encouraging ear to share your ideas, dreams, hopes, goals, needs, fears
- Social network is there for you on tough days, is a helping hand, a meal you didn’t have to cook
- Social network can also help you find solutions to your problems. My mom used to say “Many minds make light work”
How do you rebuild your social network after abuse?
You may find it hard at first to start reaching out to people after being isolated in abuse, but start slowly
Reach out to friends and family who are positive and you can be YOU when they are around
To rebuild your social network, find a group activity, join a support group, a reading club or volunteer
You do not have to tell everyone the details of your experiences, but choose based on your comfort level
Remember, your social network should be people that are positive, encouraging, empathetic and non-judgmental
Your social network should have more than one person in it, as each person will have something different to offer
The more supportive people you have in your life the more effective your social network will be
You can start your social network with the professionals in your life, doctor or therapist, then add others as you connect
Speak up about the types of support you need, emotional, physical, financial or in-kind, sharing ideas and information
The only way your social network will know what you need is if you tell them. Don’t be afraid to speak up
Ask people in your social network to recommend others who may be able to help you. This will broaden your network
Be patient and remember that you won’t be comfortable with everyone you meet. Take it one day at a time
It can take a while to feel close to someone and feel like you can trust and count on them
Take care of your new friendships. Be a good friend and offer support when you can. A social network is about give-and-take
Support from a healthy social network should increase your level of joy, purpose, and satisfaction
Stay away from people who are overly critical, if you feel anxious around them they shouldn’t be in your social network
REMEMBER TO BE POSITIVE
REMEMBER, open up to your social network and let them know what you need
Stay engaged and find opportunities to include your new social network in your daily, weekly, monthly life
Thanks for joining Right-On with HFG
We look forward to seeing you next Wednesday September 24 for our weekly Right-On conversation
The topic for next week is – Rebuilding Your Career After Abuse
Please email your questions and comments to right-on@hfgfamilies.com
If you would like more information on the HFG support group please email info@hfgfamilies.com
Have a great day! HFG Hugs!!