Every third Sunday in September, communities across the nation come together to celebrate National Women’s Friendship Day. This special day serves as a reminder of the importance of female friendships and their profound impact on the lives of girls and women alike. Individuals are encouraged not only to appreciate existing relationships, but to also foster new ones.
The significance of National Women’s Friendship Day lies in its ability to highlight how these bonds contribute positively both emotionally and socially. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that strong friendships can enhance mental health by reducing stress levels and generally making people more satisfied with their lives. “On the other hand, when people are low in social connection—because of isolation, loneliness, or poor-quality relationships—they face an increased risk of premature death,” said Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD, a professor of neuroscience and psychology at Brigham Young University who studies how relationships affect the mind and body.
Furthermore, supportive networks often provide practical assistance, whether it be sharing resources or offering advice based on shared experiences. Some local groups have become popular ways for friends old and new alike to connect over common interests while celebrating each other’s achievements. For example, one anonymous junior says that she enjoys spending time with her all girls book club because “besides talking about books, it’s a really welcoming space where we all get to talk about our issues and lift each other up.”
As for the day’s origins, it was created by the Kappa Delta sorority in 1999 with the goal of “[acknowledging] the importance of friendship among women [and encouraging taking] time to show appreciation for the support and encouragement your friends provide,” according to their mission statement.
National Women’s Friendship Day serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing and maintaining supportive relationships throughout all stages of life. In all, it offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the significant bonds of sisterhood that make the lives of girls and women so much better.
