The Emphasis on Friendships: Why Women's Friendships Matter

Supportive friendships can reduce our feelings of social isolation and increase our sense of well-being. Our friendships particularly among women are important for our physical and mental health. These relationships provide a safe space for emotional validation and shared experiences. A study from UCLA showed that close female relationships improves confidence, happiness and good health. Additionally, interactions between women show increased serotonin and oxytocin (bonding hormone), which increases positive behavior and overall improved health.

I generally feel that we should never underestimate the healing power of a good

girlfriend. When I think of my closest friends they act not only as cheerleaders and sounding boards for my wild and crazy thoughts, but also as accountability buddies to stay true to my goals for personal growth. I can think back to a time when I was left high and dry a single mother with two small kids, my friends held me down. Stayed in my home, helped with my babies, baby sat, became the rock’s that I needed when things appeared so hard. My friends pushed me through a time when I was juggling multiple areas of my life, kids, work attending undergraduate and grad school. Areas that I felt I was in need to give up and we are even talking about the boyfriends!

Another study published by the National Library of Medicine found that friendships among women were positively related to strong relationships with other women and the higher women perceived those relationships the higher the feelings of wellness, self-worth and empowerment. I believe we see this structure even in our media with tv shows like Girlfriends, Insecure, Sex in the City, Gossip Girl where we witness supportive friendships amongst women even amongst the drama.

Ways that women can deepen their friendships and build strong, lasting connections include being intentional, offering emotional support, and practicing mutual reciprocity. Reciprocity is a foundation of healthy female friendship because it creates balance, encourages equal effort, and helps friends prioritize, plan, and support one another. Mutual self-disclosure sharing personal thoughts, fears, and joyful moments, also strengthens the emotional bond between friends.

Friendships amongst women is a unique form of solace and community where we are allowed to be ourselves.