Piece of Mind: Talking of relationships

By Alexandra McCluskey
Staff Writer

Humans are social creatures. Socialization plays a critical role in how we develop as children, and can make or break how we turn out.

I’ve always been an introvert, and never had any issue with that. But as I’ve gotten older and gone through more hardships in my life, I find myself craving a relationship more and more.

It’s tough, not only getting to know someone, but putting the effort forward to maintain that friendship/relationship.

But as it turns out, the science behind relationships, platonic or otherwise, supports the claim that close bonds can make a world of difference to your life.

People who have friends are less likely to develop heart conditions, high blood pressure, depression and anxiety.

This is all due to the release of oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin; feel-good hormones, in your body. These hormones help to fight your negative response to stress.

And guess who triggers these happy reactions? Friends!

Have you ever laughed so hard with someone that your stomach started to hurt? But it didn’t matter, right? Because you were having such a great time.

This is due to the release of another chemical, endorphins, dubbed the happiness-hormone.

The launch of endorphins in your brain is triggered by pleasure; activities such as laughter, eating, exercising or sex.

Our brains are trying make us happier, but that can only be done adequately if we surround ourselves with friends and loved ones.

It can be difficult making friends and forming bonds, but you’ll be happier, healthier and overall a better person for it. Trust me.