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International Day of Friendship falls on Wednesday, July 30 and is a chance to celebrate the people who make life better just by being part of it.
While the day was launched by the United Nations in 2011 to encourage peace and connection across cultures, it’s just as important here on the Hibiscus Coast, especially with many of our community older and transitioning into a new stage of life.
Friendships look different at every life stage. School-aged children, for example, are lucky to be surrounded by social opportunities, and research from Canada (2021) shows that close friendships in childhood help kids build confidence, resilience, and emotional wellbeing that lasts into adulthood. Local groups like Scouts or Guides, and after-school activities, are a great way to help kids connect beyond the classroom.
For teenagers and young adults, connection can be more complicated. A recent global study (Gallup, 2024) found that 59 percent of people aged 18 to 24 reported loneliness was affecting their mental health. However, a recent US study found that high-quality friendships were the strongest predictor of teen well-being, regardless of social media use. Investing in a few close friendships can go a long way, even for busy university students or early-career adults.
Friendship continues to matter well into adulthood.
Studies out of Australia in 2020 show that strong social ties in mid-life are linked to better mental health, lower stress levels, and even physical health benefits. But making new friends as an adult takes effort. Locally, there are lots of ways to connect, whether it’s through book clubs, walking groups, the Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, or other community groups. Sports clubs like Hibiscus Pétanque and local bowling clubs also welcome players of all ages and skill levels, with an emphasis on fun.
Older adults benefit hugely from staying socially connected. A study in Japan (2023) found that regularly meeting up with friends was beneficial towards preventing the onset of dementia. On the Coast, many older residents stay connected through regular meet-ups, hobby groups, or volunteering, be it at an op shop, out in the fresh air, at local planting days, or cleaning up litter on beaches.
Beyond organised clubs or groups, there are plenty of ways to meet people and cultivate friendships at any life stage:
Attend community events: Keep an eye on community notice boards or websites for local events like markets, festivals, or cultural celebrations. These gatherings are great opportunities to strike up conversations and meet others in a relaxed setting.
Use technology wisely: While nothing beats face-to-face interaction, online communities can supplement your social life. Neighborhood forums, interest-based Facebook groups, or apps designed to connect people (for example, a local hobby group on Meetup) can lead to real-world friendships. Just remember to stay safe and seek out positive, supportive online spaces.
Reconnect with acquaintances: Sometimes a friend is closer than you think. That colleague you chat with at work or the neighbour you greet in passing could become a good friend if you take the initiative. Invite them for a coffee or suggest an activity you both enjoy – you might discover common ground and mutual support.
