top of page
Search

International Day of Friendship: Celebrating the Lifelong Value of Connection and Companionship

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

30 July 2025

International Day of Friendship: Celebrating the Lifelong Value of Connection and Companionship
International Day of Friendship: Celebrating the Lifelong Value of Connection and Companionship

As the world marks International Day of Friendship, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association Australia (VMHPAA) calls on communities across the country to reflect on the deep importance of friendship, not just as a social luxury, but as a vital ingredient for mental wellbeing, resilience, and human flourishing.


Established by the United Nations to promote peace, connection, and mutual understanding, the International Day of Friendship reminds us that meaningful relationships are powerful antidotes to the isolation, stress, and fragmentation of modern life.


“In the business of mental health, we see time and time again that it’s not status or success that gets people through the dark times, it’s connection,” said Shane Warren, Chair of VMHPAA and long-serving mental health professional.“Friendship is more than just company. It’s an emotional anchor, a mirror for growth, and often the first line of support when life gets hard. Never underestimate the power of simply showing up for someone.”

Mental health research consistently shows that strong social bonds reduce the risk of anxiety, depression, and even physical illness. Vocationally trained mental health practitioners - counsellors, community workers, lived experience professionals, and more - play a critical role in helping people build, rebuild, and nurture meaningful connections.


“As practitioners, we don’t just support clients individually,” added Susan Sandy, VMHPAA Secretary and a relationship counsellor with over 25 years' experience.“We also encourage the development of safe, sustaining social networks, whether that’s repairing family dynamics, fostering new friendships, or strengthening community ties. Friendship is a form of wellness.”

VMHPAA encourages all Australians to take a moment today to:


  • Reach out to a friend you’ve lost touch with

  • Thank someone who’s been there through the ups and downs

  • Support a peer, colleague, or neighbour who may be isolated

  • Reflect on how we can be better friends - to others and to ourselves


Because behind every strong person is often a strong friendship.


Media Contact:

Shane Warren, Chair

Susan Sandy, Secretary

VMHPAA



Comments

bottom of page