Happy Friendship Day! Today, we celebrate those special bonds that enrich our lives, make them happier, full of laughter and more meaningful. Friendship Day is celebrated every year on the first Sunday of August. 

However, friendship is not just about having someone to share a laugh with.  We often hear this, as many people are fond of saying that ‘friends are friends for a reason,’ there is actual science behind why good friends are good for us. As incredible as them are the benefits they offer—both emotionally and scientifically.

A human need: The power of connection

It is not just nice to have friendship, it is a fundamental human need. Studies have proven that social relations are very important to both our well-being and our health. Our brains are designed to use people we know as the source of pleasure, and science has discovered that being with friends triggers the brain to release a cocktail of chemicals that make us happy.

Raising Dopamine and the joy of friends

Did you know that even just thinking about your friends can increase levels of dopamine in your brain? It is like your brain’s way of saying, 'Hey, I miss you!'  One of the chemicals that play a significant role in the chemistry of friendship is dopamine that is commonly known as the pleasure chemical. Dopamine is associated with pleasure or the reward center of the brain. A person associates with their friends because the brain produces Dopamine, which triggers the happiness hormones, enhancing the need to make friends. This is exactly why a heartfelt conversation or a comforting hug from a friend feels so reassuring.

Strengthening Oxytocin: The bonding hormone

Friendships also use Oxytocin also referred to as the love hormone or bonding hormone, and help us buffer against stress. This hormone is released while smiling, hugging, talking, or even in the presence of familiar, loved ones. Oxytocin assists us in bonding with others and makes us feel closer, or connected to, our friends. That is why the simple words, a warm conversation or the embrace from the close one is so comforting.

Helping reduce stress through friendship

Stress is also reduced due to the formation of friendly relations. Under stress, for instance, the production of cortisol, a stress hormone linked to the ‘fight or flight’ response takes place. When we assemble with friends, it is common to see cortisol levels go down and muscles relax thus, relieving stress. Friends are always there for us figuratively; they listen to us, give advice and guide us through the hurdles of life hence reducing stress. Remember when a simple phone call from a friend helps you through a tough day at work. It is not just the conversation that lifts up your spirits, but the genuine concern and laughter you share that made all the difference.

Improving longevity: The impact of friendships

Studies have shown that strong social connections can even contribute to a longer life. Individuals with close friends have better health including a decreased chance of getting a critical illness and better mental health. Hence, social interaction such as friendship is very important in enhancing overall well-being and extending one’s lifespan.

The science of laughter

In fact, people together with friends love to preside over speeches and jokes – laughter is the language of friendship. Laughter has physiological effects by promoting endorphin release, which are the natural painkillers as well as mood stabilizers. That is why spending time with friends can result in great laughter, happiness and tremendous fun. It is amusing not only because of the good vibrations that are felt throughout the body but also because they are good for one's health.

A day to celebrate

On the occasion of Friendship Day, it is important to stop for a while and think about your friends. Do not be ignorant, just call someone, share a laugh and cherish the friendships that you have. As we celebrate Friendship Day, let’s remember that these valuable connections are not just about shared moments but also about the scientific benefits that come with them.  Here is to friendship and all the wonderful ways it fosters wellness.

 
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