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Conventional wisdom of good friendships is that it enhance an individual's sense of happiness and overall well being. A number of solid studies support the notion that strong social supports inprove a woman's prospects for good health an longevity.
No doubt, it has been shown that loneliness and lack of social support are linked to an increase risk of heart disease, cancer and viral infections as well as higher mortality rates.
friendship is a "behavioral vaccine" that protect health and mental health
Its is still unclear to may researchers on how friendship and health status are linked together and the precise reasons for this connection.
There are a number of theories that attempt to explain the link, including that :
- Good friends actually affect physiological pathways that are protective of health
- Good friends encourage their friends to seek help and access services, when needed
- Good friends enhanve their friend's coping skills in dealing with illness and other health problems
-Good friends encourage their friends to lead more healthy lifestyles
In the Western world, inimate physical contact has been sexualized in the public mind over the last one hundred years and is considered almost taboo in friendship especially between two males.
Furthermore, stylized hugging or kissing may be acceptable depending on the context.
In spain and other mediterranean countries, men may embrace each other in public and kiss each other on the cheek.
Friends bring out the best in each other. Health strives where they are happiness and joy.
Friends for life and with benefit.