4 Reasons Friends Are Important

4 Reasons Friends Are Important November 20, 2019 Social Anxiety Disorder Overview Symptoms & Diagnosis Causes Treatment Living With In Children Tang Ming Tung/Getty Images If you are dealing with social anxiety disorder (SAD), you may find it difficult to make and keep friends.?? This issue may be so severe that you avoid friendships altogether. Although you may convince yourself that you dont need friends to get along, there are many good reasons to want to have friends. Here are some of the arguments in support of friendship for people with SAD. Encouragement and Support Friends are especially important during times of crisis and turbulence. If you find yourself going through a hard time, having a friend to help you through can make the transition easier. Social Support Is Imperative for Health and Well-Being Self-Esteem Having friends you can rely on can help to boost your self-esteem. On the other hand, a lack of friends can leave you feeling lonely and without support, which makes you vulnerable to other problems such as depression and substance abuse.?? Having at least one person you can rely on will help to build your confidence. How Self-Esteem Affects Social Anxiety Disorder Keeping You Active If you spend a solitary life, it is much easier to be reticent about participating in regular activities such as sports, clubs, and hobbies. On the other hand, if you have at least one friend, you will be more likely to get out and start doing things. That friend may also suggest activities that you would not have considered on your ownâ€"thus, pushing you outside your comfort zone to challenge your anxiety. Positive Influence In addition to negative peer pressure, friends can also provide a positive influence. If you make friends with people who are generous with their time, help others, ambitious, or family-oriented, you are more likely to develop those values yourself.?? Having positive relationships with these types of people will also improve your social functioning in general. How to Make Friends When You Have SAD