Friendships are one of the most beautiful parts of life, aren’t they? Having people you can laugh with, lean on, and share memories with makes life richer. But did you know that friendships also greatly affect your mental wellness? That’s right! Healthy friendships can lift you, help you manage stress, and keep you grounded. But building these kinds of friendships takes a little effort. If you’re wondering how to create and maintain friendships that support your mental health, you’re in the right place. Here’s how to get started:
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Be Yourself
This is the first and most important step. Being yourself allows people to connect with the real you, not some version you think they’ll like. When you’re authentic, you attract friends who appreciate you for who you truly are. And let’s be honest, trying to be someone else is exhausting. When you’re real, you can relax, knowing your friends are there for you, not for some façade. This makes friendships feel easy and comforting, which is great for your mental wellness.
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Choose Friends Who Support You
Have you ever been around someone who drains your energy or leaves you feeling worse? Those aren’t the kind of friendships you want for your mental health. Surround yourself with people who lift you, encourage you, and are there for you when times get tough. A healthy friendship is a two-way street: you give and receive support. If you notice a friendship is one-sided or makes you feel bad about yourself, it might be time to reassess that relationship.
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Communicate Openly
Healthy friendships thrive on good communication. Don’t be afraid to express your feelings, needs, and boundaries. Being open doesn’t just mean sharing the fun stuff—it also means talking about things that bother you. If something your friend does hurts you or makes you uncomfortable, talk about it calmly and respectfully. And just as important, listen when your friends open up to you. Friendships can grow stronger and more fulfilling when both sides feel heard and respected.
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Make Time for Your Friends
Life gets busy, and it’s easy to let friendships fall by the wayside, but putting in time and effort to connect with friends is crucial for building strong bonds. Whether it’s grabbing coffee, sending a quick text, or scheduling regular hangouts, staying connected shows you care. Friendships, just like any relationship, need nurturing to thrive. When you make time for your friends, you create memories, strengthen your connection, and provide each other with much-needed emotional support.
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Be a Good Listener
One of the best ways to strengthen a friendship is by being a good listener. When your friends talk to you, really listen—don’t just wait for your turn to speak. Show empathy and try to understand their point of view. Sometimes, people just need to be heard. Being that person who listens without judgment can deepen your friendship and create a safe space where your friend knows they can come to you with anything. In turn, you’ll feel the same trust, which is great for your mental well-being.
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Accept Differences
Not all your friends will think, act, or believe exactly like you, and that’s okay! Having friends with different viewpoints can help you grow and see the world in new ways. The key is accepting these differences without trying to change each other. Healthy friendships embrace diversity. Respecting each other’s unique traits and experiences can bring richness to your life, making the friendship more meaningful and supportive for your mental wellness.
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Encourage and Celebrate Each Other
A big part of building healthy friendships is being each other’s cheerleaders. Celebrate your friends’ successes, encourage them when they’re down, and remind them of their worth. When you lift each other, you’re building a positive environment where both of you feel valued and supported. And guess what? It works both ways! Having a friend who does the same for you can boost your mood and self-esteem, contributing to your overall mental health.
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Set Boundaries
Even in the closest friendships, boundaries are important. Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you care less about someone—it strengthens the relationship. Boundaries help you protect your energy, time, and mental health, which allows you to show up as a better friend. Let your friends know what you’re comfortable with, whether it’s how often you can hang out, off-limits topics, or how you prefer to communicate. Respect their boundaries too. Healthy boundaries keep friendships strong and balanced.
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Be Honest
Honesty is the backbone of any strong friendship. Being truthful, even when it’s uncomfortable, builds trust and prevents misunderstandings. If something is bothering you or if you feel hurt, it’s better to talk about it than to keep it bottled up. Honest conversations can help clear the air and bring you closer together. Remember, it’s not about criticizing—it’s about expressing how you feel so that the friendship stays healthy and strong.
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Be There in Good Times and Bad
True friendship isn’t just about showing up for the fun moments—it’s about being there during the tough times. Life is full of ups and downs and having friends who stick with you through it all is invaluable. Be that friend who offers a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on when things get rough. Your support can make a world of difference in someone’s mental wellness. And when you need someone to lean on, having friends you’ve been there for will likely return the favour.
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Final Thoughts
Building healthy friendships isn’t just about having a good time; it’s essential for mental wellness. When you surround yourself with positive, supportive people and invest in those relationships, you create a circle of love and trust that can help you through anything. So, take the time to nurture your friendships, be a good friend in return, and watch how these relationships uplift your mind and spirit!
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This article was first published on 25th September 2024
chidiogo-akaelu
Chidiogo Shalom Akaelu holds a degree in English and Literary Studies, from the University of Nigeria. She is a freelance writer, editor and founder of Loana Press, a budding online publishing outlet.
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