Friendship and Mental Health

We all know the joy of laughing with a friend, the comfort of a shared story, or the quiet ease of just being in someone’s company. But friendships offer more than warm memories and good times—they are a vital part of our mental health and emotional wellbeing. 

As we mark International Day of Friendship on 30 July, it’s a timely reminder that our social connections aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re deeply woven into how we cope, heal, and thrive. Friendship & Mental Health are vital to each other. 

In this blog, we explore the powerful link between friendship and mental health, why reaching out matters more than we sometimes realise, and how CBT Professionals can help if you’re finding connection difficult. 

Why Friendship & Mental Health go hand in hand

Human beings are social by nature. From early development through adulthood, we’re shaped by our relationships. Studies consistently show that strong social support is linked to lower rates of anxiety, depression, and stress, and even contributes to better physical health outcomes. 

Friendships, in particular, play a unique role. Unlike family or work relationships, friendships are chosen and mutual. They offer: 

• Emotional support – someone to listen without judgement. 

• Validation – a sense that your feelings and experiences are real and understood. 

• Perspective – a reminder that you’re not alone, and that tough times do pass. 

• Joy – laughter, shared interests, and companionship, which all boost mood and motivation. 

These connections buffer us against emotional distress, acting as a protective layer when life feels overwhelming. Just knowing someone is there—whether physically or emotionally—can make a real difference. 

Loneliness: The Hidden Struggle 

Despite the importance of friendships, many people struggle with loneliness. And loneliness isn’t always about being physically alone—it’s about feeling emotionally or socially disconnected. 

According to the Mental Health Foundation, one in four UK adults feel lonely some or all of the time. Loneliness can creep in during major life changes—like moving house, ending a relationship, or starting a new job. But it also commonly shows up alongside low mood, anxiety, grief, or when someone is navigating a period of poor mental health. 

When we’re feeling low, reaching out can feel harder than ever. It can bring up fears of being a burden, of rejection, or simply the exhaustion of trying to explain how we’re feeling. This is where the cycle can become self-perpetuating: the more disconnected we feel, the harder it is to seek support—and the more our mental health suffers. 

The Science Behind Social Support 

Research in psychology and neuroscience shows that social connection activates brain regions associated with reward, safety, and regulation. In contrast, prolonged loneliness can actually increase stress hormones like cortisol, contributing to poor sleep, reduced immune function, and higher vulnerability to mental health challenges. 

One influential study from Harvard that tracked people over decades found that close relationships—not wealth or career success—were the strongest predictors of happiness and health in later life. 

This tells us something important: investing in friendships isn’t just a feel-good bonus—it’s part of taking care of our mental and emotional wellbeing. 

Reaching Out: It’s a Brave First Step 

If you’re struggling with your mental health, reaching out might feel like the last thing you want to do. But connection doesn’t have to be loud or performative. Sometimes it’s as simple as sending a message to a friend, replying to a text, or asking someone if they’d like to catch up. 

Here are a few gentle reminders for when reaching out feels hard: 

• You’re not a burden – True friends care. They want to know how you’re really doing. 

• It doesn’t have to be perfect – You don’t need the “right words.” Just be honest and kind to yourself. 

• Start small – A wave, a check-in, a walk with someone you trust. These small acts matter. 

• Professional support counts too – If you’re not ready to open up to friends, talking to a mental health professional can be the first bridge back to connection. 

CBT Professionals: A Safe Place to Reconnect 

At CBT Professionals, we understand that emotional disconnection and social withdrawal are real challenges—especially during times of stress, depression, or anxiety. Many of the clients we support come to us feeling isolated, unsure how to rebuild confidence or re-enter social spaces. 

Our team of compassionate, qualified psychologists provide a non-judgemental, supportive space where you can: 

• Explore what’s making connection difficult 

• Learn tools to manage social anxiety or low self-esteem 

• Understand relationship patterns and set healthy boundaries 

• Rebuild confidence in being seen, heard, and valued 

We take a holistic, person-centred approach that acknowledges where you are right now—without pressure or expectation. Whether your goal is to improve an existing relationship, feel more comfortable in social settings, or simply feel less alone, we’re here to help. 

Friendship in All Its Forms 

As we celebrate the International Day of Friendship, it’s also worth remembering that friendships don’t have to look one particular way. They don’t have to be big or busy. Some of the most powerful connections come in quiet, consistent, trustworthy relationships—be that with a long-time friend, a neighbour, a support group, or a therapist. 

If you’ve lost contact with friends, or your social world has changed, you’re not alone in that either. Life ebbs and flows—and connection can be rebuilt at any time. It’s never too late to reach out – friendship & mental health is crucial. 

Friendship isn’t just a social nicety—it’s a cornerstone of mental wellbeing.

And while reaching out may feel vulnerable, it is often the most powerful thing we can do for ourselves. 

On this International Day of Friendship, let it be a gentle reminder:
You don’t have to go it alone.
Support is out there—whether in a friend’s message, a shared moment, or a therapist’s room. 

At CBT Professionals, we’re here to walk with you—step by step—as you rediscover the strength of connection. 

Need support?
Our friendly team at CBT Professionals is here to help. Get in touch to book an appointment or learn more about how we can support your mental health journey.