You hear it all the time: ‘Oh, I just couldn’t live without my friends!’

It’s not just a figure of speech – it’s a scientific fact!

Friendships don’t just make us happy, but actually play a vital role in our physical health.

A 2015 study found that your social relationships could be as important for your health and lifespan as exercise and diet.

The study measured the social relationships and physical health of people from adolescence through to late adulthood.

It found that those with strong social connections had better health at each stage of life. It also found a direct link between social isolation and physical issues such as inflammation and high blood pressure.

Another study has found that the lack of a strong social network could be as bad for your lifespan as cigarettes or alcohol. It’s more reason than ever to keep your friends close!

It’s not just our physical health that friends are here for, but our mental health too. Strong friendships help us deal with stressful situations, as well as providing support in the happy times (plus often being the source of the happy times!)

And don’t stress if you’re not type to have a whole lot of friends. Research suggests that it’s quality, not quantity that counts when it comes to friendships.

So next time you have a night out with your besties, remember – you’re doing it for your health!