July Is Friendship Month: Why Connection Matters — Especially When You're Far From Home
Friendship is one of the most powerful tools we have for nurturing our mental and emotional well-being. In fact, studies show that close, meaningful friendships can reduce stress, boost self-esteem, increase longevity, and even support heart health.
But when you live abroad, maintaining friendships — especially long-distance ones — takes a bit more intention. As an expat, I've come to appreciate the deep roots of my friendships, even if they're scattered across time zones. While I've built a beautiful life in Italy, I often find myself navigating the delicate balance of staying connected to loved ones back home.
So in honor of Friendship Month, I want to share a little love for the people who hold us up — near or far — and offer some tips for maintaining long-distance friendships while living abroad.
Why Friendship Matters for Mental Health
Reduces loneliness: Having someone to talk to — even virtually — can significantly decrease feelings of isolation.
Emotional resilience: Friends provide a safe space to share challenges and joys, helping us regulate stress and stay grounded.
Encourages self-care: When we feel supported, we're more likely to take care of ourselves and reach out when we're struggling.
Provides perspective: Friends often help us reframe challenges, see the bigger picture, and remember who we are.
5 Ways to Nurture Long-Distance Friendships
Schedule check-ins like appointments
Life gets busy, especially across time zones. Put a monthly call or video chat on the calendar like you would any other important meeting.Send surprise voice notes or postcards
A little “thinking of you” message can mean the world. Bonus: A handwritten card or local treat from your travels makes it extra special.Share small, everyday moments
You don’t need a big update to connect. Snap a photo of your cappuccino, your walk through the city, or the pasta dish you just made. It's the small things that keep you feeling close.Start a shared tradition
Watch a show "together," send each other a book to read, or celebrate birthdays with a virtual toast. Having something you both look forward to helps maintain a sense of togetherness.Be honest about what you need
Sometimes one friend has more capacity than the other — and that’s okay. Keep the communication open and honest. Strong friendships make space for each other’s realities.
Living abroad brings incredible adventures, but it can also come with moments of homesickness and disconnection. The friendships we choose to invest in — even from afar — become our emotional lifelines. They remind us of where we come from, who we are, and that we're not alone.
So this Friendship Month, reach out. Send that message. Plan that call. Celebrate your people — because love, connection, and laughter truly know no borders. 💛
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