Hello!
The Pew Research Center conducted a study in September/October of 2022 to understand how parents in the U.S. approach parenting. I personally found this study interesting because it was completed in a late stage of the pandemic. Parents that we speak to routinely express concerns about how the pandemic has had a negative impact on their children's social life and well being.
40% of parents are extremely/very concerned that their kids are struggling with anxiety or depression.
35% of parents are extremely/very concerned about bullying
These results show that there is widespread concern for kids.
Friendships can help!
There is a wealth of scientific evidence supporting the positive impact of friendships on overall well being and happiness. Studies have shown that having close social connections can reduce stress and depression, improve mood and self-esteem, and increase overall well-being. Additionally, people with strong social support networks are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors and have better outcomes in dealing with life's challenges. One famous decades long study is described in this Ted Talk:
