Have close friends
Have deep, meaningful friendships
Close friendships are not a luxury — they are a biological necessity with measurable effects on health and longevity.
Be a good friend
Excel at being supportive and loyal to friends
Being a good friend is not just a moral aspiration — it is a skill that directly predicts your own wellbeing.
Make new friends
Form new friendships throughout life
The ability to form new friendships is essential at every stage of life, yet it becomes increasingly difficult with age.
Maintain long-term friendships
Keep friendships alive over many years
Long-term friendships are among the most protective factors for psychological health across the lifespan.
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Based on Chulef, Read & Walsh (2001) · Last reviewed February 2026
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