Why Friendship Might Be the Health Fix You Need

When was the last time you caught up with your closest friend? It might be time to schedule that next coffee—because high-quality friendships do more than lift your mood. They can also boost your overall health and wellbeing.

Here’s how spending time with your friends can support a healthier, longer life:

1. Friends lower stress

When women feel close to someone, the body releases more progesterone—a hormone known to reduce stress and anxiety—according to research. That hormonal surge was also linked to a stronger willingness to help others, which scientists believe played a role in our social evolution.

2. They can help you live longer

In one large study, women aged 50 to 79 were asked about the level of social support in their lives. Years later, those who reported stronger support networks were more likely to still be alive. Other studies show that women with breast cancer who have strong emotional and social support also have better odds of survival.

3. Socialising keeps you razor-sharp 

We’re all looking for ways to boost our memory, and regular social connection could be one of the most effective. When researchers studied people over 80 who had the memory function of someone decades younger, they found these “super agers” had more positive social relationships.

4. You'll just feel better 

The research is clear: good friendships are stronger predictors of health and happiness as we age than even family relationships. That might be because we’re able to choose our friends and slowly filter out relationships that don’t serve us, while family ties—complicated or not—tend to stay.