How Bad Friendships Can Affect Our Health

Written by: Valerie Soon

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The significance of friendships to our health and well-being

Friendships play an integral role in what we value, how we think, and ultimately who we become (Arora, 2021). Besides enhancing the quality of our lives, friendships also provide socialization and emotional support, even combating loneliness (Arora, 2021). Without strong social connections, we are at a greater risk for anxiety and depression and may even experience lower immunity (Arora, 2021).

Guroglu (2022) posits that fostering and maintaining friendships is one of the most essential developmental tasks in adolescence. High-quality friendships are synonymous with positive developmental outcomes and mental well-being, both concurrently and in the long run (Guroglu, 2022). By creating a sense of belonging and offering support, friendships fortify us against the harmful effects of adverse experiences, such as peer victimization and internalizing behaviors (Guroglu, 2022). Additionally, great friends also serve as a positive influence on our lives. For instance, if you befriend individuals who are generous with their time, ambitious or family-oriented, you are more likely to develop those values. Cuncic (2021) asserts that friends hold power to mold you into the best version of yourself. They accept and love you for who you truly are and encourage you to do better and be the person you desire to be—your ideal self (Cuncic, 2021).

In essence, great friends are vitally important in all stages of life. Arora (2021) suggests nurturing and strengthening our friendships, and we ought to focus on three factors - positivity, consistency and vulnerability. We should cultivate positive feelings, regularly connect and pave the way for open communication in our friendships.

References

Arora, A., & Mannis, R. (2021, January 14). The health benefits of strong, long-lasting friendships and how to strengthen your connection with others. Insider. https://www.insider.com/why-is-friendship-important

Güroğlu, B. (2022). The power of friendship: The developmental significance of friendships from a neuroscience perspective. Child Development Perspectives. https://doi.org/10.1111/cdep.12450

The Top 6 Reasons Friends Are Important. (2021, January 8). Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/the-importance-of-friendship-3024371