Why they matter and how to care for them
What are platonic relationships?
Platonic relationships are an important part of our social lives. They are defined by having a close bond with another without being romantic or sexual. These relationships can be between people of any age, gender, and/or sexual orientation. Simply put, platonic relationships are friendships.
Why do they matter?
Platonic Relationships are healthy for your general wellbeing. They provide us with love and care, lower stress, and increase resilience. Research shows that platonic relationships benefit both parties involved by assisting each other with the stresses and challenges of life.
Caring for platonic relationships
Because platonic relationships benefit our lives and the lives of those we care about, it’s important we cultivate and care for them. Here are three steps you can take to maintain a healthy platonic friendship.
- Don’t Make Them Do All The Work: Don’t rely on the other person to make all the plans and initiate contact. Reach out to each other with equal efforts to remain in contact. Invite them to activities.
- Stay In Touch: Keep an open line of communication through text, calls, emails, social media etc. Reach out to each other to check in, share a funny video or just to say hello. These gestures show you care.
- Show Up: Be there when they need you. Lend a listening ear, offer help and support and build them up emotionally.
Like all relationships, Platonic Friendships take effort from both sides to remain healthy. But Winnie the Pooh might have put it best:
To learn more about platonic relationships check out Verywell Mind’s full article for more information!