The USA is becoming a classic example to substantiate the statement that the world is turning lonelier. Men of the country are suffering from a lack of friends. As per a recently conducted survey, only half the men were content with their friends and the number of friends they had. But 15% men did not even have a single friend. This loneliness is 5 times more in comparison to that of 1990, and for the last 20-22 years, men’s number of friends is dwindling constantly.
The males do not express their feelings in front of their friends, while the females share what they feel, and hence, the bond between them gets stronger.
In the wake of this situation, psychologists are sharing ways to make new friends and to try them on old friends. They suggest that in order to make new friends, one has to initiate a conversation, which may feel weird at first. Another suggestion suggests that one should not hide their feelings from their friends and should let them know how much they love them.
Another way to make new friends is to find them around you and not on social media. Psychologists have said that we should get associated to groups of people similar to us, because even though we might have a lot of groups on social media, such a ‘friendship’ does not help deal with loneliness, and hence, one should go to parks, temples, or tea shops, and become a part of the ongoing conversations, this will help you get connected with people.
It is also important to be understood that friendships do not develop on their own. Many a times, people need to move to newer places for studies or work, but friends are not made easily in new cities. One can become a part of volunteer groups, a club, or could enroll themselves for a class to learn something new. As per experts, friendships in adults are formed the same way they develop among children.
It has also been suggested that friendships which develop through sports are very deep and continue for long periods of time, and therefore, no matter what age you are, it is advised to be a part of sports and games, and to talk to the fellow sportspersons. Morning walks and runs are also helpful in making new friends, and with evening teas and dinners together, friendships get strengthened.
