Since “we all need someone to lean on”, friendship helps us in more ways than we know. Investing in friendships is essential in a time when, despite the increase in online interactions, feelings of loneliness and disconnection remain common. Platonic connections are valuable for mental health, providing more than just comfort. Studies show that friendship improves confidence, reduces stress and has a beneficial impact on physical health. Healthy nutrition and exercise can even be surpassed thanks to strong social relationships.
Increase longevity
Good relationships have a major impact on a person’s physical health. Close social relationships can help reduce the risk of diabetes, heart attack and stroke, as well as other health problems. According to a 2010 study, having a strong relationship cuts your risk of dying young in half. Conversely, health problems such as high blood pressure, substance abuse, heart disease and cancer are linked to social isolation and loneliness.
Makes a person active
Healthy habits are also encouraged by friendship. Friends can support you in creating and maintaining regular exercise and balanced diet goals. Additionally, they can provide support and intervention when negative behaviors, such as binge drinking, begin. Studies show that people are more committed to their weight loss or exercise regimen when they engage with friends. When a friend is there, things become more fun and less scary, which pushes everyone to go beyond their comfort zone.
Spiritual support
The emotional support of friends can help make a difficult transition easier. For example, a study of high school students found that sad students were more likely to recover if they had happy, supportive companions. Likewise, students whose peers had “healthy moods” were half as likely to be depressed.
Improve your lifestyle
The development of friendships is essential for self-confidence. Affirmation from friends increases your sense of self-worth and your ability to appreciate yourself. Supportive friends provide validation and encouragement, which builds confidence. Encouragement from close friends makes it easier for you to see your own skills and abilities.
Reduce stress
Friendship also has the important benefit of reducing stress. Having supportive friends can help you feel less pressured in difficult situations. According to a Harvard Medical School study, social relationships reduce stress, which is harmful to the immune system, gastrointestinal health, insulin management, and the arteries surrounding the heart. Research demonstrates that when children face difficult events with their peers, they release less cortisol, a stress hormone.
Sense of community
Developing friendships is another way to contribute to a sense of community. Real-world communities often lack the vibrancy of online groups, despite the success of online groups. Fostering friendships between friends can help create a sense of community and help people feel part of their environment. Regular interactions with friends at local establishments, like coffee shops or grocery stores, reinforce a sense of community. Our values and personality can be greatly influenced by the individuals around us. We can develop virtues like kindness, helpfulness, ambition, and family orientation by prioritizing connections with people who have similar qualities. Encouraging friends have the ability to shape us into better versions of ourselves by accepting and loving us for who we are. They inspire us to grow and evolve into better versions.
Daily habits are important for heart health
