What Are The Advantages of Friendship?
- leighflowers1998
- Oct 28, 2021
- 2 min read
Friendship is a fundamental part of the human condition from the earliest stages of existence. Some friendships are fleeting and transient. Some people meet and create strong bonds that will continue for years. Having friends, like most things, isn't always easy, but it's worth the work to keep them healthy. Finally, having friends improves one's quality of life.
They make it clear who you are.
According to Susan Krauss Whitbourne, author of the Psychology Today article "Fifteen Reasons We Need Friends," people tend to choose friends who are similar to themselves. Taking this into consideration, it's safe to assume that friends play a significant part in helping you learn more about yourself. Friends can help you figure out what your goals are and encourage you to keep on track while you're working toward them because they're like-minded.
They provide a shoulder for you to lean on.
"What Are Friends For?" is the title of a New York Times article. In her book "A Longer Life," Tara Parker-Pope says that when people are in distress, they often turn to their friends for help rather than family or support groups. According to specialists at MayoClinic.com, good friends can help you cope with catastrophic life events such as major illness, divorce, job loss, or the death of a loved one. Long-lasting friendships bring greater peace of mind because you know your friends will be there for you through thick and thin.
They Maintain Order in Your Life
Friends jump in and tell you things that a polite stranger would never say. According to Whitbourne, because your friends know your ins and outs, they can see things that you can't see (or choose to overlook), and they won't hesitate to give you the truth. Every now and then, everyone needs a reality check. Friends can also point out unhealthy lifestyle patterns and encourage you to avoid or change them, according to MayoClinic.com.
They're Beneficial to Your Health
Sue Shellenbarger explored the health benefits of friendship in research referenced in the "Wall Street Journal" article "Beyond Facebook: the Benefits of Deeper Friendships." Friendship lessens physical stress, resulting in lower blood pressure, a slower heart rate, and fewer stress chemicals. According to the Cleveland Clinic Wellness article "The Health Benefits of Friendship," knowing you have people to rely on gives an alternative to the usual fight-or-flight response to stress, especially in women.
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