A close knit group may expect you to do things their way. A tightly connected network may provide more support, but it may also have too much control over you. Giving and receiving support is tied to positive family health and well being. As important as it is to be supported, it s just as important to support others. Ways to be a friend might be offering to watch a neighbor s children for a few hours, bringing dessert over to someone who might need an added lift, or calling someone on the phone to let them know you are thinking about them.
Lonely feelings are natural.
There are many ways to cope with feelings of loneliness and help you adjust to your new role. Look at the following list. Circle each item you use. First, look at the number of circles you drew around items 1-8. This shows how often you ease loneliness with useful activities you do alone.