In honour of International Women’s Day on 8^th of March, we take a look at the incredibly powerful and healing force of female friendships, which can help reduce stress, boost happiness and wellbeing, and contribute to an overall healthier life.

Women tend to develop deep and meaningful connections, providing emotional support during life’s milestones and challenges. These friendships have a distinct depth, which can help combat anxiety, depression, and even cognitive decline.

So, what makes female friendships so special? The answer lies in the so-called “tend-and-befriend” response that women have adopted in times of stress.

Unlike the fight-or-flight response, which causes individuals to either withdraw from or confront conflicts, the tend-and-befriend approach promotes care, support, and compassion to navigate challenges. This not only alleviates immediate stress but also strengthens emotional bonds, making friendships more resilient and enduring.

A key factor in this is oxytocin, also called the “bonding hormone” or “love hormone”. During meaningful social interactions, oxytocin levels in women rise and enhance feelings of trust, connection, and bonding, which – in turn – reduces cortisol levels and stress. Friendships also trigger the release of serotonin and dopamine – the neurotransmitters responsible for our moods and feelings of happiness, pleasure, and satisfaction.

Did you know that men also have better mental health when they have a close female friend? This is because men still find it hard to talk about their emotions with other men, whereas they are more likely to open up to women. Women use their friendships as an outlet during times of stress, sharing thoughts, feelings, and emotions with one another, allowing them to process emotions more effectively.

This International Women’s Day, reach out to those special female friends in your life and let them know you appreciate them.

References:

• Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2024/08/19/a-unique-reason-why-female-friendships-are-stronger-by-a-psychologist/
• Amen Clinics: https://www.amenclinics.com/blog/the-science-of-female-friendships-why-they-matter/