Despite living in an age with numerous social media platforms to help you keep in touch, it seems we are becoming more isolated, especially when we become parents.
However, new research has revealed the reason we MUST make the time to see our friends on a regular basis.
Here’s how many times we’re recommended to have social interactions each week…
Revealed! How often we should see our friends
Friendships are unique relationships because unlike family bonds, we choose to enter into them.
And a recent study, which was published in PLOS Medicine, found that people who had a good circle of friends around them were more likely to live longer.
So, what constitutes a good social life? Experts suggest seeing your friends at least once a week, if not more!
Having good friends not only increases life expectancy but it also reduces stress and depression and can have a good influence on your health too.
It seems those with good pals are more likely to pick up healthier habits, such as being active or eating well.
“Humans are naturally social,” begin the study notes. “Yet, the modern way of life in industrialised countries is greatly reducing the quantity and quality of social relationships.
“Many people in these countries no longer live in extended families or even near each other.
“Some experts think that social isolation is bad for human health.”
Meanwhile, another study noted that only that only 2 out of 5 women have the time to actually go out with their girlfriends once a week, even less often if they have children to care for.
“Research shows that women, [possibly] more than men, need to maintain friendship connections. It increases serotonin and oxytocin, the bonding hormone,” says Alisa Ruby Bash, PsyD, LMFT.
“We get busier, with more responsibilities. It makes us feel nurtured and validated to hang out with friends we can be totally ourselves [with], minus the outside pressures.”
No more excuses. Make a date with your besties, stat!
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