NOTEBOOK ▲ WORDS: ABI HARMAN, IMAGES: GETTY IMAGES, SHUTTERSTOCK, FOR STOCKISTS: SEE PG 345 NOTEBOOK BUDDY UP Friendships are a key part of life and can bring enormous joy. However, it turns out that being with friends isn't just about having fun. According to research from Michigan State University in the US, friendships can have health benefits, too. Those who had strong, supportive friends reported lower rates of disease than those whose friends were a source of strain. Study author William Chopik says that, compared to family, 'friends provide an outlet'. He adds: 'You can say things to friends and they are less judgemental. There is a distance that provides a level of honesty.' www.athomemagazine.co.uk AUGUST 2017 | 021http://www.athomemagazine.co.uk