It’s no secret that good relationships give us joy and security. Phrases like peas in a pod and ride or die wouldn’t exist otherwise. Science backs this up, linking friendship to positive effects on the body and mind. What happens, then, when a friendship becomes toxic? Girl Pow-R takes on this challenge in their new single Slam: the song encourages young people to Marie Kondo their social circles in favour of healthy relationships and mental well-being.
Friendship + Mental Health
Did you know that your friendships deeply impact your mental health? Studies have proven that spending time with close friends increases feelings of happiness and fulfillment. In addition to simply enjoying the company of others, spending time with your friends can help you feel calm and reduce anxiety. Forbes notes, “Some experts recommend that you spend time with your [best friends] twice a week.” In need of serotonin? Call your bestie. Doctor’s orders!
Healthy friendships also reduce levels of stress. From supporting us when we’re low to helping us navigate challenging situations, the help of good friends has short- and long-term benefits. Just take a look at the results of a 2021 study on friendship and mental health during the pandemic, as reported by Newport Academy:
“Adolescents who had strong teen friendships prior to the pandemic were less likely to internalize the stress of isolation and social distancing. These connections helped reduce teen loneliness, depression, and anxiety.”
Beyond the pandemic, Newport Academy also lists the following benefits of strong friendships formed during teenage years: stronger immune systems; lessened anxiety; stronger emotional and cognitive skills; even an increase in life expectancy! The benefits of healthy friendships are endless. So, what does this mean when friendships become toxic? Girl Pow-R and Marie Kondo (aka the iconic duo you didn’t know you needed) have your answer.
Girl Pow-R x Marie Kondo
Marie Kondo (Konmari), queen of joy and minimalism, took 2019 North America by storm with her organization and lifestyle process. The KonMari method organizes your home by only maintaining items that spark joy: no joy = no good. Enter Girl Pow-R. Girl Pow-R’s Slam reflects the KonMari method in the realm of relationships. Friendships that spark joy are vital; friendships that don’t are emotional clutter. Not only are these friendships emotional clutter, they also negatively impact our mental health.
Remember the benefits of healthy relationships above, like improved physical and mental health? Unhealthy relationships (naturally) have the opposite effect. Unfortunately, getting rid of toxicity is no easy task. This is why public discussions about advocating for yourself and learning how to let go of unhealthy relationships are important, especially for adolescents. Girl Pow-R steps up to the plate with Slam.
Beyond the electro-pop beat and catchy tune, Slam directly promotes self-advocacy and removing toxic friendships. Responding to betrayal, the group puts their self-worth first: “You snuck around my back / And I will not take that.” They make it clear that they will not tolerate an unhealthy relationship, instead choosing to prioritize their own mental health: “You used to stand by me / And now I need to be free / It’s time to take your bow / ‘Cause the end starts now.” Like the KonMari method dictates, no joy = no good.
Investing in our Minds
Everyone’s mental health journey is different. One thing that’s clear across the board, however, is the impact our friendships have on our minds. And that impact is HUGE. Everyday Health reported on a 2019 study that found “a strong social circle (as measured by study participants’ cellphone activity) was a better predictor of happiness and general wellness than fitness tracker data, such as heart rate and physical activity.” As Girl Pow-R member Carina Bianchini points out, it’s the quality – not the quantity – of your friends that really matters. So, if you’re making your plans for the day, forget the FitBit and check in with your BFF. Your mental health (now and in the future) will thank you.
Girl Pow-R is a group of Canadian artists with a mission of spreading positivity across the globe. The Juno-nominated group creates music to empower young people and bring awareness to social causes in their communities, such as mental health and well-being.
Today’s mental wellness activity: squad dance party! Add Slam by Girl Pow-R to your “Self-Love” playlist on Spotify and Apple Music. Don’t forget to subscribe to their YouTube channel for the latest music video and BTS content!
Ready for more inspiring and uplifting music? Follow Girl Pow-R on social media!
GIRL POW-R
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