Spending time with friends is an extraordinarily underrated activity. As our society continues to grow further towards individual isolation, we need comradery now more than ever.
I do often catch myself celebrating the cancellation of plans or not prioritizing socialization, even with those I am familiar with.
It is in our biological make-up to exist among groups for survival and well-being. We can see it in our desire to be accepted and approved of by others; we are always drawn to the minds and company of others.
So, what are the consequences of spending too much time alone? According to researchers from Brigham Young University, from studies of several hundred thousand of people, a 50% increase of premature death was observed. This is because loneliness and isolation can lead to problems such as increased blood pressure, high cholesterol and depression.
It is important to prioritize time with friends for one’s well-being.
Many people think of socialization as going out and meeting new people, but it can also include staying in and being with those you have known for years.
If you struggle to find friends or do not have any yet, there are many ways you can meet new people. My first recommendation would be to connect with campus clubs and activities.
Many of these clubs can be found through fliers around campus and activities advertised in your Troy student email. Most of them are free and right on campus for easy access.
Even if you are not ready to reach out for friends, this is a great way to get out of your house or dorm and be around others.
Some of campus’s upcoming activities include a women’s basketball game on Wednesday Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. in the Trojan Arena, a baseball game on Wednesday, as well, at 4 p.m. at the Riddle-Pace Field and a history lecture by Dr. Joshua Butler from Albany State University on Thursday Feb. 27 at 11:30 a.m. in the library.
If I am feeling discouraged or feeling stressed from class work, an hour with the company of a friend is all I need to push me through the rest of the week, and I know many others share the same feelings.
It is just as important to make time for friends as it is to make time to eat. If you are not in the right headspace to operate, you are unable to give forth your best effort in work, school, and expression.
To experience quality time with friends, I believe it is best to stay off of your phone as much as possible. This is because phone usage is what many are using to replace interaction with people.
You can also use low-cost or free activities so that it does not become a hassle seeing your friends often. These activities can include a PowerPoint night, baking, playing host to a clothing swap, rearranging your room or even something as simple as a conversation.
If done regularly and frequently, these plans with others are enough to see changes in your mental and physical health.
I want more people to see and feel the benefits of spending more time with friends or getting out of the house to have more experiences.
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