Are friends with us only to do parties and fun. Discover a lot about what kind of asset friends are, what kind of role they play in our life:
- Happy people might spread their good fortune, say researchers. In the same way happy friends will.
- A large friend list may add years to your life. One study found people with many chums lived 22% longer than those with only a few buddies. Good friends often encourage you to make healthy choices, like staying active. They can squash stress, too.
- Loneliness doesn’t just feel bad. It’s actually bad for you. Researchers at Brigham Young University found that having few friends is as dangerous for you as smoking more than a pack a day or drinking heavily. And it can actually be worse for you than being obese or a couch potato.
The connection’s not clear, but a strong social network can reduce your risk of stress and depression. When you’re feeling good, you’re more likely to take care of yourself.
- Pets aren’t just great companions. They can actually help you meet human pals, too. One study says people who own cats, or even other animals like rabbits and birds are more likely to know the folks in their neighborhood. They also get more advice and support from people they meet through their pets.
- Close friends give you support. That lowers stress. Casual connections are important, too. Hang out with folks like work friends, neighbors, and fellow spiritual group members. It’ll keep you from getting lonely. You’ll also be more active.
- Being around people gets our minds working in many different ways. It challenges us, too. If you can, spend time with friends and family. But even support from people you’re not close with, like a caregiver or neighbor, can help keep your brain sharp.
- Friendship can help keep you healthy in the short run, too. Having pals lowers stress, which has a positive impact on your heart, gut, and even your immune system. One study found that people who had lots of social ties were four times less likely to get a cold virus than those with few social relationships.
- If your closest pals don’t live all that close, don’t stress. Research shows that distance doesn’t harm friendship strength or benefits. A phone call to a friend can make you feel connected. And that can combat both loneliness and stress.
It's not just about having loads of friends, it's also about what kind of quality all friends have. The attitudes, trust and the honesty we enjoy. It is not only about the time which they are willing to give you, also it is equally important what kind of commitment you have for them too. It's not only about the time spent with our friends it's about the quality of time we spend with our friends.
Source: WebMD health mailer
