Why Are Friends so Important?
Friends are important because they bring companionship, support and enrichment to life. They are also needed for survival, notes the Mayo Clinic, as people who have friends are generally healthier and enjoy a better quality of life.
Friendships are important to both children and adults. Studies have shown that children who have a strong circle of friends are bullied less often than children who spend most of their time alone, explains About.com. A child can cope more easily with bullying with the support of friends. Friends stand up for the child that is being bullied and assist in reporting the bully.
Friendships are very important for adults as well. Adult friends help each other in dealing with job loss, parenting issues and divorce. Unlike strangers, friends can be honest with each other. They can tell each other if an outfit looks awful or if a latest love interest is not a suitable one. Adults who do not have strong social support structures are at greater risk of depression and are generally less productive. As adults get older, they often feel that life’s priorities take over, and they do not have time to make friends. A few ways to make new friends include volunteering, joining a church or taking up a new hobby.
