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Friendship as a Force for Healing

Friendship is more than just companionship—it can be a lifeline. On International Day of Friendship (July 30, 2025), we’re highlighting resources that explore how meaningful social connections support healing, especially for survivors of trauma, abuse, and violence.

Whether you're a survivor yourself or a friend looking to offer support, these resources offer insight, guidance, and encouragement.

 Resource Roundup

International Friendship Day

🔗 International Day of Friendship | United Nations

Learn about the UN’s vision for friendship as a tool for building bridges between communities and promoting peace, inclusion, and solidarity.

🔗 Friendship: Something to Remember | UNICEF

A reflection on the importance of friendship in childhood and beyond, and how it shapes emotional resilience and empathy.

Supporting Survivors Through Friendship

🔗 5 Ways to Be a Good Friend to a Trauma Survivor | The Mighty

Practical, compassionate tips for being present and supportive without overstepping boundaries.

🔗 The Role of Friendship in Trauma Recovery: How do social connections help heal emotional trauma? | The Friendify Blog

A thoughtful look at how social connections can help regulate emotions, reduce isolation, and foster healing after trauma.

Helping Friends in Crisis

🔗 Friends and Family Guide - How to help someone in an abusive relationship | WSCADV

A comprehensive guide for recognizing abuse and offering safe, nonjudgmental support to someone in an abusive relationship.

🔗 A Guide for Friends and Family of Sexual Violence Survivors | RAINN

Offers clear, trauma-informed advice on how to respond when someone discloses sexual violence, and how to be a steady source of support.