The term ‘loneliness epidemic’ has been thrown around plenty since the pandemic. As we struggle to find authentic social connection, the WHO declared loneliness a global health concern as well. But how did we get here? A 2023 Pew Research survey shows that 61 per cent of adults believe having close friends is extremely important to lead a fulfilling life. Even dating apps like Hinge and Tinder are pivoting their strategy to promote platonic BFF connection alongside old-school romance. The writing on the wall is loud and clear: people want, no need, close friends.
Yet despite the fact that all of us are seeking the same thing, it feels harder than ever to reach best friend status. “You know when people make a WhatsApp group for a party and inevitably forget to add someone? Well, I’m usually that last person to be added,” shares Hyderabad-based Sahana P with a feeble smile. “Don’t get me wrong, I have friends. But I’m not anybody’s 3 am call, and that’s starting to get to me.” The 26-year-old accountant craves depth and intimacy in her friendships, but says she fails to transcend the outer circle.
The writing on the wall is loud and clear: people want, no need, close friends. Yet despite the fact that all of us are seeking the same thing, it feels harder than ever to reach best friend status. But how did we get here? Are we too burnt out? Is pop culture to blame? Are we scared to commit? Or are we wrong about what it truly means to be a close friend to someone? Darshita Goyal tackles these burning questions.
