When we think of healthy living, the first things that come to mind are diet and exercise. But researchers are discovering that human relationships are just as important, if not more important. Friends, it seems, are on the same level as eating vegetables and finding time to go to the gym.
But why is this? Let’s take a look.
Friends Reduce “Social Isolation”
Some people can live by themselves happily. But, for most, social isolation is a serious problem. Most human beings evolved to be around others. Being in each other’s company is essential. Social isolation can harm both physical and mental well-being.
That’s why hearing loss is such a problem. When people can’t communicate with others, it increases the risk of social isolation, depression, and even dementia. With better hearing and communication, however, people can maintain social relationships.
Friends Reduce Stress
Life can be tough sometimes. Relationships, work, health issues, and world events can all pile up inside your mind.
Friends, though, help you bust through stress and get a sense of balance back in your life. When you’re with people you like, you have a community. Everyone is going through similar issues, and everyone supports each other. Joking and having fun with friends reminds you that, ultimately, life isn’t too serious.
Friends Provide Emotional Support
Emotional support is another reason why friends contribute so much to wellness. Good friends really listen to your problems, help you validate your feelings, and distract you from some of the pressures that you place on yourself.
Having just one or two close friends is often enough. Going to people, aside from your partner, can be extremely beneficial in gaining new perspectives on life.
Friends Make You Feel Like You Belong
For human beings, having a sense of belonging is critical. Collectively, we need to feel like we’re a part of a tribe. If we don’t, it can lead to all sorts of health consequences. Lone wolves often have poor health, including high blood pressure and cortisol levels.
Friends Support You Through Challenges
Life can sometimes throw curveballs at you. The death of a loved one, loss of a cherished job, divorce, or a pandemic can all make things extremely difficult.
However, friends are there to support you through challenges. They are able to help you manage traumatic events and work through them. Studies show that having good friends around helps you to recover after challenging experiences.
Friends Help You In Your Personal Development Journey
Part of becoming a healthier person is about changing your mindset and choosing the things that are good for you. Getting into the right habits (or avoiding the wrong ones) depends considerably on the people around you. Good friends do things that support your well-being. For instance, they might go on jogs with you or help you quit smoking. They might also encourage you to make better health decisions that boost your confidence or hold you accountable when you fall short of the standards you’ve set for yourself. Ultimately, good friends will support anything that improves your well-being.
