.jpg "Photo by Udo von Mulert")
Friends help. That's conversations, hugs, coffee, holidays. A recent study about the impact of relationships on health found people had a 50% better survival rate if they belonged to a social group- friends, neighbours, relatives, or a mix. Doctors say we need to take loneliness as seriously as drinking or not exercising.
Friends and family can improve health in numerous ways, from help in tough times to finding meaning in life. "When someone is connected to a group and feels responsibility to other people, that sense of purpose and meaning translates to taking better care of themselves and taking fewer risks"
So go on- meet a friend, make a friend, take your friends to meet your new friends :)
Here's a link to fun things to do
If you're in serious need of someone to talk to, these guys will listen - Youthline
This blog was adapted from one at Guardian.
