How Do I Like to Be Supported?

Support for me varies in what I want and what I need.

Within a relationship — that is the kind of support I want.
I want to be cheered for when I achieve something. I want to feel they’re by my side and ready to act if I need them.

The best support is just being understood and loved for exactly who I am.

The support I need looks different.
It is a lot of practical support like help with verbal communication, help with cooking, going outside. Support doing those tasks that are usually done without thinking — paying for things, ordering at a restaurant, going to an appointment or sometimes even personal care.

Co-regulation is the biggest support I need because without another human my system shuts down.

So the best way I feel supported is to have a healthy mix of want and needed support.
Hugs, cheering my successes, and practical household help. Alongside my daily care needs.

It is important for me to offer my support too in a relationship, because I understand that supporting me can be heavy.
I don’t mean that in a disrespectful way to myself. Caring for a loved one full time is a hard role in life.

Making sure I support them back the best I can makes a huge difference to them.

— Frost ❄️