May 12, 2024
We all know how valuable our friendships are, but did you know there’s actual research to back that up?
According to the Mayo Clinic, good friends relieve stress, provide comfort and joy, and prevent loneliness and isolation. A lack of social connection can have a powerful impact on your physical health. They also help you cope with traumas, such as divorce, serious illness, job loss or the death of a loved one.
You only have to talk to anyone who has ever been divorced to understand the sense of loss and social isolation that comes when they suddenly lose all their adult friendships after a breakup either because it’s too hard, or because they left the maintenance of social connections to their partners. And we’re not even talking about what happens when abusive partners try to separate you from your friends!
Why you need a strong friendship network
Real, good, friends are there for you no matter what. In good times, and bad, whether they’re coupled up or single, have kids or can’t have kids, and especially when you fight with your boyfriend and need someone to bitch to and share a glass of wine with. A 2021 US study from Colombia and Michigan State Universities suggest that the practical and emotional support provided by your friends has a direct impact on your happiness – the more people prioritised their friendships, the happier they were.
And that tracks. If you don’t have many friends, break up’s are about 100 times harder for one. So keep that in mind next time you’re cuddled up on the couch with your beau and can’t make time for your BFF who just needs a night out to forget about their ex. You never know, you might need them to be there for you in return one day. And a bit part of having strong friendships is making time for them when they need you the most.
We all make compromises in a romantic relationship. They can be as small as going to the restaurant they want for dinner, to as big as compromising part of who you are. But if you’re scared to speak up about what you really want because you’re scared they’ll leave – maybe consider getting therapy? Of course, if you’re in a new relationship and confident in yourself, finding areas of compromise and opening yourself to new experiences can be a good thing. Sometimes you need to choose your battles!
Strong friendships are the foundation of great relationships
