It only takes one

Having friendships isn’t just about having people to spend your free time with – they are critical to social growth and strong mental health.

Dubai psychologist and Gulf News reader, Louise Lambert, highlights the importance of even just one friend to someone’s life.

“Positive psychology puts a lot of importance on relationships of all sorts, including friendships,” Lambert said. “Our relationships with others are a distinct pathway to happiness for various reasons.”

In a new city far from home, as Dubai is for many residents, it’s good to have someone to help us with the dos and don’ts.

“Friends tell us what is normal and acceptable by their feedback,” Lambert explained. “They tell you that outfit is ill-fitting without even saying it, they just make no comment. They give us clues as to what is appropriate, when you speak out of turn, are rude, dismissive, they cool off the friendship or break it.”

Unlike family or partners, friends don’t have to be there, but they want to and they make the effort. It’s no surprise then that from a social aspect, friends are also good for giving a feeling of social self-worth – a validation that can only be found through friendship.

Even with family and spouses, it can be over-demanding to rely on them alone for all our social needs and coping with stresses.

“It’s better to spread your support system far and wide so that you are never left without support, care, and opportunities for growth,” Lambert said. “You don’t need 1000 friends on Facebook - just one real, good friend can bring you these benefits.”