Artwork by Yujin Lee
Among the numerous relationships that humans entangle with each other, few are as vital as the bonds between family. Beyond mere companionship, families offer a sense of love, support, and understanding that is unlike any other humane bond. Such qualities make family one of the most essential pillars in individual mental health. The pivotal role that families have can be extremely extensive, from the care and nurture of maternal figures to the camaraderie and joy felt in brotherhood.
Family is not just the people that you grow up with, or the people that you’re biologically related to. Family is home. However, for many, the teenage years are when we feel the most distant from our families. Rebellious phases as a result of puberty and an overall lack of appreciation for family often causes tension between parents and children, which causes us to overlook the value of family on mental health.
Obviously, families offer companionship and love. Unlike other social or humanitarian relationships, families provide unconditional love, which is rare in any other humanitarian relationship. Family members have no reason to love each other other than biological bonds. However, they are often the best source of companionship and love, as well as support and understanding. The feeling of being constantly supported and sympathized is a huge mental boost, as it can stabilize anxiety and feelings of instability. This is especially helpful for the youth, who often struggle with their identity and the feeling of being loved.
Family relationships are key in establishing good mental health among youth from a younge age. Often, juvenile delinquents and other youth who have mental health issues also did not have supportive families, who were able to strengthen their mental health from a young age. Parental figures are able to make individuals feel cared for and valued, as well as teach values of hospitality that can spread to other youth. Additionally, sibling relationships can offer a sense of friendship and joy similar to that of a significantly close friend.
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