PLATONIC
The many benefits of maintaining friendships.
BY CHERI HENDERSON
W
e eat right, exercise and seek medical care or counselling when needed. But studies show many of us are missing a key element that can help us live longer, healthier, more fulfilling lives: friendship.
Vital social connections give us a biological edge to combat cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes, inflammation, cognitive decline and other health complications, according to a 2015 Brigham Young University study.
“ If we’ re more socially connected, that [ is ] associated with 50 per cent greater odds of [ longer ] survival,” according to Brigham Young University psychology and neuroscience researcher Julianne Holt-
Lunstad, the study’ s co-author. Adding to the biological benefits, Julianne says having friends boosts our quality of life and lifespan simply by holding us accountable and encouraging us to take better care of ourselves.
In addition, friendships help us respond better to stress and avoid depression or anxiety, according to a 2023 study published in Frontiers in Psychology. But, as society becomes increasingly disconnected, many are missing this part of a healthy life.
Why we need each other
“ Friendship matters because it tends to offer people something that other personal relationships don’ t,” says Laura Eramian,
pals
POSITIVE THINKING
Sometimes friendships can be harmful or can bring out the worst in us. Think of friendships like food, says psychologist and Happiness Podcast host Robert Puff. Some foods agree with us, and others don’ t. But Brigham Young University psychology and neuroscience researcher Julianne Holt-Lunstad recommends we maximise the positive by focusing on the many things you have in common with someone rather than the few things you don’ t.
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30 | JUL / AUG 2026 COSTCO CONNECTION