Friendships that last longer than seven years last a lifetime, psychologist reveals

Your friendship will stand the test of time

The friends you make in college, in school, or even in your first job will become some of the most important people in your life.

Our friends are our chosen family and can make our lives feel so much better, especially those who have been in our lives for some time.

The friends we've had for seven years or longer are the ones who will last a lifetime, according to research.

Research by Dutch sociologist Gerald Mollenhorst at Utrecht University found that friendships are stronger passed the seven-year mark.

Nurturing our friendships takes work and commitment, but they can improve our health and well-being.

One study found that people with strong friendships are less likely to suffer from depression.

This is because they've got close friends to lean on during hard times.

The team at Brigham Young University stated:

"When people are low in social connection—because of isolation, loneliness, or poor-quality relationships—they face an increased risk of premature death."

It is important to note that the research doesn't fully reflect our reality.

Some friendships are only destined to last for a short period in your life. Other friends will be part of your life forever, but you may only meet them at later stages in life.

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