Lykkers, we often hear about the importance of healthy eating and regular exercise, but did you know that maintaining positive friendships should rank just as high?

In fact, investing in strong social connections can have a profound impact on both our physical and emotional well-being. We're here to dive into how having a strong social network can change our lives for the better.

The Unique Power of Friendships

Friendships are not just for fun — they can serve as a key factor in boosting our health. According to Dr. Kelli Harding, an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, friendships should be prescribed like medicine for their health benefits. But just like with exercise and diet, not all friendships are created equal.

A healthy friendship is built on mutual respect and support. Dr. Marisa Franco, a Washington, DC-based psychologist, explains that if one person is always thinking about their own needs without considering their friend's, the relationship might not be healthy. True friendships are based on reciprocity and genuine care, especially in times of need.

Quality Over Quantity: How Many Friends Do You Need?

One might wonder how many friends are enough to enjoy the benefits of a social network. Research shows that the quality of friendships is more important than the quantity. True friends are those who are there for you during times of crisis, not just when it's convenient. A good friend will show up when it matters most, even in the middle of the night, because their bond with you is built on genuine care and commitment.

Having a supportive social network is beneficial no matter its form. It could consist of family members, a partner, or close friends, as long as the relationships provide positive support. Dr. Harding emphasizes that any positive social connection — whether biological or not — is crucial for our well-being.

How Friendships Benefit Physical and Emotional Health?

Now, let's explore how these meaningful relationships can help us in both our physical and emotional health.

1. Promoting a Sense of Belonging: Feeling like you belong is a fundamental emotional need. According to Dr. Mahzad Hojjat, a professor of psychology, belonging to a social group significantly reduces feelings of depression and hopelessness. Research has shown that people who have strong social connections feel more secure and satisfied with their lives.

2. Boosting Self-Esteem: Friends help build our confidence. A supportive friend is our cheerleader, celebrating our successes and helping us through difficult times. Studies have shown a reciprocal relationship between self-esteem and positive friendships — as our self-esteem grows, so does our ability to form stronger, healthier relationships.

3. Reducing Stress: Going through tough times can be much easier with friends by your side. Dr. Hojjat points out that sharing life's challenges with a friend helps alleviate stress. In fact, studies have shown that physical touch, like a simple hug, can lower stress and promote emotional healing.

4. Protecting Cognitive Health: Studies indicate that people with strong social ties may have a lower risk of cognitive decline as they age. In one study, older adults who were socially engaged showed better cognitive function than their lonelier counterparts. Having someone to converse with regularly can boost cognitive resilience and protect against conditions like dementia.

5. Helping Us Cope with Grief: Life's losses — whether it's a loved one, a job, or even a pet — are always easier to handle with friends. Social support has been linked to better coping mechanisms for those dealing with grief and loss. Research shows that those with a supportive network bounce back from trauma faster and with more emotional stability.

6. Encouraging Healthy Behaviors: A friend who values health can motivate you to adopt healthier habits. Whether it's working out together or encouraging better nutrition, friends can be powerful influences on our lifestyle choices. They can also provide gentle reminders when we're straying from healthy habits.

7. Lowering Long-Term Health Risks: Strong social connections have been shown to reduce the risks of chronic diseases like heart disease and arthritis. According to research, social isolation can lead to unhealthy inflammation, which is linked to several serious health problems. By staying socially connected, we can lower this risk.

8. Increasing Longevity: Believe it or not, having a strong social circle may actually help you live longer. Studies have consistently shown that people with solid social ties are more likely to survive long-term than those with weaker networks. The sense of belonging and emotional support that comes with these relationships is essential for longevity.

9. Making Us Happier:It turns out that having good friends can make us happier — and even more than exercise or fitness! Research has found that happiness and social connections are strongly correlated. If you surround yourself with positive, happy friends, you're more likely to share in their joy and lead a happier life.

Maintaining Friendships for Better Health

As we navigate through life, it's clear that friendships are not just important for emotional fulfillment, but for our overall health. Lykkers, remember, strong social connections provide a wealth of benefits for both your body and mind. Invest in the friendships that lift you up, and make time for the people who genuinely care about you.

Just as we take time to focus on our physical health, it's crucial to nurture our social well-being. The next time you connect with a friend, remember that you're not just catching up — you're also investing in your long-term health and happiness.