Axios

This originally appeared in Axios Finish Line, our evening newsletter focusing on life lessons, leadership, and health and fitness. Sign up here.

In America, we value family and work — but friendship often falls behind. Many of us have few or no close confidants, the data shows.

Why it matters: Friends help us get through the tough times and sweeten the good times. And a thriving society is filled with strong friendships.

• Studies have shown friendship lengthens our lives, improves our performance at work, makes us better parents and broadens our minds.