The importance of family and/or a strong support system is evident in healthcare. As the healthcare system shifts care away from hospitals, family support represents an essential component of the overall recovery of the individual. Carol Levine, Director, Families and Health Care projects at the United Hospital Fund of New York says it simply: "Medicine cannot function without family."
According to Dr. James Martin from the Academy of Family Physicians, families establish patterns of preventive care, exercise, hygiene, and responsibility, and they set the foundation for self-worth, resilience, and the ability to form healthy and caring relationships.
Families who balance their time more effectively have better overall relationships, and consequently better health.
Links:
[1] http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/sites/default/files/images/thumbnails/family.jpg
[2] http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/create-healthy-lifestyle/relationships/why-relationships-family-are-important
[3] http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/create-healthy-lifestyle/relationships/nurture-your-family-and-relationships
