Strong bonds and friendships are just as essential to good health as a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Studies show , friendships are capable of improving our well-being and longevity. They boost our happiness and help us feel supported and loved, too.

While having any friends is a plus, research says having three-to-five close friends is optimal, more than that typically becomes tough to juggle. “We don’t generally have sufficient time or emotional energy to sustain more than five close friendships at any given time,” Lauren Napolitano , a clinical psychologist practicing in Philadelphia, tells TODAY.com.

However, not having enough or any close friendships has its downsides, too. Loneliness being the big one. “Less than three close friendships is less than ideal because it lowers

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