Female friendships are important for women of every age. Community is important, but having the bond of a close female friend has incredible benefits for physical and mental health, as well as quality of life. The world is a busy and male dominated place. And as we age, we tend to spend less time with people outside of our immediate family. But having community that understands, uplifts, and inspires you is especially important!

Connection is necessary for all humans, but there is something special about a female friendship. Female friends are there to lift you up and support you, no matter what you are going through. These friends can be your best friend since grade school or college, who has seen many different versions of you. It can be your sister, aunt, or niece, or any close bond you have within your family. But there is something special about women being there for other women.

Here are just a few of the benefits to having even just one close female friend:

Emotional Support

One of the things that make female friendships special is the level of emotional intimacy you will have for one another. Women tend to be socialized to express their feelings more openly. So many of us are comfortable calling each other to vent about work, at 2AM when we can’t sleep because of a recent breakup, or any other emotionally taxing event in our lives. These relationships help reduce stress, increase feelings of belonging, and remind us that we’re never truly alone.

Our Biggest Cheerleaders

Our best female friends will hold space for your ambitions, your failures, your weird hobbies, and your moments of growth. When the world tries to shrink you, the right friends remind you, you deserve to take up space. These women will call you out with love, hold you accountable, and push you to grow. They’ll remind you of your worth, even when you forget, and they’ll cheer you on louder than anyone else in the room.

Female Friends are Better for Our Health

Studies show that strong social ties, particularly among women, are linked to lower rates of depression, increased lifespan, and even better physical health. When we have people we can rely on, whether that be a should to cry on or an outlet for our hobbies, we are healthier and happier. Our friends may push us to make healthier decisions, but just their support in life can help you to feel safe and loved. And this gives you the space to feel better mentally and physically

So don’t hesitate to reach out to your friends! Any female friend you have, has the potential to be a hugely positive and supportive person in your life. Whether you’ve know them since childhood or just met last month, it doesn’t matter. Women should hold a special place in other women’s hearts.