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- Friendships in Adulthood
Hello! Welcome to another edition of the ABC of Mental Health, your partner in the journey to better mental health — one newsletter at a time. This week’s theme is Friendships in Adulthood. We bring it to your inbox this Thursday to make your Thursday a little therapeutic!
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One relevant recommendation:
Making friends as an adult can be challenging, given our many roles and responsibilities. However, the secret to building lasting friendships is to keep trying. This article is a practical guide to initiating conversations, being vulnerable, building friendships and keeping us from being paralysed by our fear of rejection.
Two quotes on Friendships in Adulthood:
Timothy Zahn, the author of the famous Star Wars series, shares a realistic illustration of the often idealised ideas of friendships we have:
“A friend in need not be kept within sight or within reach. A friend must be allowed the freedom to find and follow his own path. If one is fortunate, those paths will for a time join. But if paths separate, it is comforting to know that a friend still graces the universe with his skills, and his viewpoint, and his present. For if one is remembered by a friend, one is never truly gone.”
@senecatheolder_ an X (formally Twitter) user echoes a much popular stance on this theme:
“There is so much depth to friendship in adulthood than I ever could have imagined as a kid. Celebrating milestones with some friends, and grieving unimaginable losses with others. Shared life. It’s beautiful.”
Three TherapyShorts from TST (on friendships in adulthood)
Maintaining adult friendships - Maintaining adult friendships can be tough because of busy schedules and major life changes like new jobs, family responsibilities, and moving. It's hard to find time to catch up, and sometimes our interests and priorities shift, causing us to drift apart. Balancing work and personal life often leaves little room for friends. By focusing on meaningful interactions rather than how often you meet, you can keep friendships strong and supportive, even with life's demands.
Growing up and growing apart -As we grow older, it's natural to grow apart from friends and routines that used to work for us. The connections and habits that suited us in the past might not fit as well with who we are now. We start to see the value in being around people who not only accept us as we are but also celebrate and support our true selves. These kinds of meaningful relationships become more important, helping us feel understood and strengthening us as we navigate life's changes.
New connections - Building new connections is important no matter your age or where you live. Whether you're in a new city, starting a new job, or just want to meet new people, forming fresh relationships can add a lot to your life. It's never too late to find people who share your interests and values. You can join clubs, attend events, or use social media to connect with others. Embracing these opportunities helps you grow and build a supportive network, no matter your age or location.
A QUESTION?
What are some ways you build connections as an adult?
Through mutual connections
Through networking events
Through a hobby/activity class
I struggle to make new friends
LAST WEEK’S RESPONSE
We see how the time we spend in different spheres of life changes as we age. What do you think? We always want to hear from you :)
Love and light,
The Social Therapist
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