When something fantastic happens, who do you tell? If you’re married, you probably said your spouse. However, studies say women will most likely answer their best friend.

When you’re in school, it may seem that you have more friends than you need. Then after graduation, everyone seems to go their separate ways. But almost everyone has that one special friend that has always been there for them.

Having a bond with someone in particular is very important. We all have times when we need to share something good or bad or just want to unload a weight from our shoulders.

Studies on women showed that who maintained strong bonds with people outside the home tended to be healthier as they grew older. Those surrounded by friends have longer life expectancies compared to people who isolate themselves, researchers say. Isolated people (both men and women) seem to face similar health risks as people who smoke or are overweight.

We need these bonds to help us through crises and to share new and exciting moments. Some say that when you’re with a close friend, you are able to let loose and be yourself. As a result, your anxiety and stress levels drop.

OK, so now you are in your mid to late 40s. The kids are grown and you find yourself without any friends. What do you do? This is the perfect time in your life to either look up old friends or make new ones. It was a lot easier to make friends when the kids were younger – but remember what helped create those friendship bonds? You had things in common – your children.