Having Close Bonds Helps You Stay Happy and Healthy: Study

A happy marriage or relationship is the key to a healthy life, finds a study.

Earlier studies have confirmed that people in happy and successful relations have healthy heart and are more likely to live longer than their single counterparts. Psychologists at the  Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh say being in a relationship imparts people the strength to deal with stress, handle pressure and also focus better on their target goals in personal and professional life. Their study found having close bonds with parents, peers, friends and spouses have positive effects on mental and physical well-being. Those who were surrounded by friends and family were able to heal better from personal crisis like divorce and death of relative or losing a job without sinking into depression.

The current research examined data from 400 studies on relationships conducted in the past 15 years. It was observed that close-ties brings out the best in people and also serve as a source of strength at the time of adversities.

People who are stuck in unsatisfactory relationships, jobs or tragic events feel secure in the company of friends and mentors who guide them to remain strong. Later, they also help look at new opportunities and push one out of their comfort zone to achieve goals and success. Overall, they serve as a firm ground to hold on to at the time of need and give honest insights to help their close ones look at experiences in a positive angle.

"This also includes assisting the person in recognizing opportunities that might otherwise be missed," said Brooke Feeney, an associate professor of social psychology at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, reports the Fox News.

"Building strong close relationships is a virtual prerequisite for human flourishing. Whether we're seeking to persevere through adversity or to stretch ourselves in challenging new directions, support from our loved ones is crucial for success," she adds.

More information is available online in the journal Personality and Social Psychology Review.