It's not just the immune system that is bolstered by social connection. "I think it's just amazing that our bodies work this way," Denworth says. For example, when you're lonely your white blood cells change their behaviour, leading to more inflammation and a weakened immune response. Science journalist Lydia Denworth, who wrote a book about the science of friendship, marvels at how social isolation affects your immune system. From improved moods to better cardiovascular health, friendships have clear benefits for our minds and bodies – even if historically they've been treated as less valuable than romantic and family relationships. While Shakes' life experiences are unique, he's far from alone in having experienced the many curative properties of friendship. "And now we support 25 people who if they're upset or they need support, they can message the page, and one of us will support each other," Shakes explains. For example, together with his friend Mark Nicholas, during the Covid-19 pandemic he set up a group chat with other disabled comedians and artists. Friends help him in numerous ways, from reminding him to take his medications to shoring him up through periods of mental ill health.īut that help goes both ways. Thankfully his friends and partner understand his need for regular solitude (which, unlike loneliness, is voluntary – read more from BBC Future about the benefits of solitude ).
I'm tired most of the time because it takes it out of me just sitting here working on the computer. He also has mental health issues and cerebral palsy, so "it is hard to keep up with friendships a lot because of my condition. He has a high-energy job, as a touring stand-up comedian based in Nottingham, UK. "I'm cancelling friend dates all the time," he admits. Benny Shakes has to ration his energy when it comes to his friends.
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