Nearly three-quarters of Brits would feel ‘completely lost’ without closest friends

Nearly three-quarters of adults say they would feel “completely lost” without their closest friends – but one in ten only see their pals in person less than every six months, research has found.

Nearly half (46%) said they wished they could see their dearest friends more regularly than they do now, according to a poll of 2,000 adults.

But regardless of how often they meet up in person, one in three (32%) message their best friend daily, or multiple times a day – while 49% ensure they speak on the phone regularly.

And half of adults (51%) are lucky enough to see their closest friends at least once a week.

Zetun Arif, director and optometrist for Specsavers Home Visits, which commissioned the research to celebrate Friendship month and highlight how those unable to leave their homes can feel bouts of loneliness, said: “Friends can play a vital part in our lives, and are formed throughout the years in so many different ways.

“The research has shown how much value there is in strong friendships, and in particular the support they can provide.

“However, not everyone is always lucky enough to see those closest to them on a regular basis.

“And in that instance, the odd visit from a friend, or even someone stopping in professionally, can do the world of good to give someone feeling a little lonely, a boost.”

Respondents have known their best friend for an average of 22 years, and met them at work, university, or secondary school.

And such is the bond, 55% would rather speak to them about more sensitive topics over anyone else – even their partner or family.

Laughter, support in difficult situations, and always being there when they’re needed, were the things they offered most.

And one in five (19%) said they’re very reliant on their close friends, according to the OnePoll data.

It also emerged half of respondents (49%) have developed a friendship with someone they see professionally, such as their optometrist or hairdresser.

And the most admired attributes of their friends were their supportiveness, their honesty, and how loyal they are.

However, feelings of loneliness, isolation, and sadness were commonly felt when unable to spend time with those close to them.

The most important components to a long-lasting friendship were seen to be trust, listening to each other, and providing support.

Specsavers Home Visits, which commissioned the survey, offers free eye tests in the home and in care homes for people who qualify for an NHS-funded eye test and are unable to leave their home unaccompanied, due to a physical or mental illness or disability.

Zetun Arif, from Specsavers Home Visits, added: “The power of friendship cannot be underestimated, and the boost people can get from them can be enormous.

“Yet sometimes people aren’t as lucky as others, and struggle to get a needed pick-me-up from those they care about due to challenging personal circumstances.

“For example, those who are housebound can find themselves at a disadvantage in terms of being unable to see their close friends regularly.

“However, those who do find themselves in that situation can often see a friendly face through our Home Visits service, which could make all the difference to them.”

Jane Nelson, CEO of The Oddfellows, a non-profit organisation that runs an annual Friendship Month campaign, said: “We are dedicated to promoting the value of friendship and helping individuals, especially those who may otherwise feel lonely or isolated.

“We encourage those feeling a bit isolated to see what’s available in your area – it’s fun to try new experiences and make new connections.”

TOP 10 INGREDIENTS TO A LONG-LASTING FRIENDSHIP:

1. Trust
2. Listening to each other
3. Supporting each other
4. Loyalty
5. Always being there to help each other
6. Similar sense of humour
7. Being thoughtful
8. Shared morals and values
9. Shared interests
10. Wanting to spend time together