According to a study, close friends, as opposed to family, make people live longer.
“The reasons are not entirely clear. Friends and confidantes might help with coping in times of stress and difficulty, the team suggests. They might also encourage healthy behaviours, such as seeking help for new medical symptoms.”
Of course this study was conducted with 1500 Australians, so things down under may be different from the states, but it’s an interesting thought.
It is an interesting thought. I’m trying to decide if it says more about friends or more about familial relationships.
» Comment by Babs on August 19, 2005 @ 8:24 pmGood question, Babs. It’s interesting, though, I wonder if people of younger generations are typically healthier with strong friendships versus families. It seems that the age factor could throw a wrench in the results of this new study. Maybe?
» Comment by Russ on August 19, 2005 @ 10:16 pmThat sure made an interesting read!
» Comment by Amit Karmakar on August 22, 2005 @ 12:41 am