From playing rounds of hopscotch at recess to joining extracurricular activities, there are plenty of opportunities to make friends as a child. If you’re lucky, some of those friendships from your school days even transitioned with you into adulthood. While you might be set with your circle of friends, there’s always room to find more. It could even be beneficial to your health.
Friendships can help stave off loneliness and decrease symptoms of depression. Having social support also can improve your cognitive health.
“It’s easy to put friendships on the backburner due to all our obligations as an adult. But it’s important to be open to making new friends as we get older,” says Dr. Jennette Berry, a family medicine physician at Advocate South Suburban Hospital in Hazel Crest, Ill.
“For example, if you’re diagnosed with a new medical condition, it might be helpful to find friends navigating the same condition who can truly appreciate the challenges you’re facing,” Dr. Berry adds.
Without going to school or working in a physical office, it can be trickier to make connections with new people. But there’s hope you can still find a new friend or two.
“Don’t be afraid to take the initiative and invite people you interact with to make plans. It might take a few tries, but eventually you’ll find someone you connect with,” says Dr. Berry.
Ready to expand your circle of friends? Here are some tips:
Find an accountability buddy: If you’re looking to make a lifestyle change such as starting to exercise, put out feelers to find a friend with the same interest.
Start or join a book club: Check with your local library to see if they offer book clubs. Or start your own book club by inviting your neighbors or existing friends who also enjoy reading.
Volunteer your time: Make connections with people who share similar interests while supporting a worthy cause.
Join a faith community: Many churches offer gatherings for new members as well as events and programming for a variety of ages.
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