Social support system refers to a network of people-friends, family, and peers-that we can turn to for emotional and practical support, according to University at Buffalo. A solid reliable friendship can turn your lifestyle into a positive outlook. Researchers believe we are overlooking the importance of friendship. Close friendships enhance moods and functioning as well as emotional and physical health, according to Saul Levine on Psychology Today. Not only are good friends a pleasure to be around, they are in fact proven to be good for your health.

Outside of the classroom, high school revolves around finding a core friend group and being able to identify which peers are truly the best support system for individuals. It seems too often that teens find themselves engaging in jealousy or arguments with their friends. A solution to prevent yourself from ending up with the wrong group of people, can be to engage with people you relate to and get along with, rather than just hanging around the “cool” people.

“High school can be incredibly stressful at times and the only way to get through it, for me at least, is to have a great group of friends to fall back on. By senior year, you’ve kind of figured out who’s really there for you and who you click with,” senior Mattie Rice said.

Social media supposedly enables people to make new friends via sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and myriad others, but unfortunately some of these online friendships are more “virtual” than real, according to Saul Levine on Psychology Today. Getting involved in clubs and group activities or athletics through your school and community can form tight relationships.

While once in awhile feeling desperate for a mood or self-esteem booster by a close friend, it should be expected to give the affection in return. Successful relationships require give-and-take, as you should always treat your friend the way you want them to treat you. Managing to display genuine respect is key in showing someone you care for them.

First, however, there are many steps in building a support system in order to earn the benefits. Staying in touch, and communicating well is a main component in a healthy relationship. Understanding and being aware of an individual’s views will allow you to give helpful advice. Respect and realize one’s values and limits may be different than yours. If something is done or said that offends you, make sure to confront the individual in a submissive way. That being said, accept apologies generously to prevent tension.

Today, many may underestimate the importance of friendship, and chose other activities and interests they believe they should prioritize. This concept of oblivion for a support system is one valid reason in why maintaining a stable relationship can be difficult. Sustaining a friendship takes effort, however, the comfort and contentment it provides, makes the venture worth it.