Feeling disconnected from your friends? You’re not alone. Friendships can often fall by the wayside thanks to busy schedules, physical distance and the overwhelming number of ways we can communicate these days.

The good news? Technology offers a wealth of tools to bridge the gap and keep those connections strong.

Below, we share our best ways to keyour connections strong in the digital age. 

Play online games together

Surprisingly, many online games boast thriving virtual communities built into their platforms. For example, online bingo platforms feature engaging chatrooms where players can share jokes and forge genuine connections – all while enjoying a flutter on the numbers. It’s a win-win for friendship and a bit of healthy competition.

Join forums

Remember the golden age of internet forums? Well, they’re still here, and thriving! From chemical reactions to bizarre retail shopping experiences, there’s a forum on Reddit for almost any niche interest imaginable. 

Joining a subreddit related to a passion you share with your friends is a fantastic way to stay connected. Not only can you discuss your hobby, but you can also use the platform to send private messages, share funny finds and generally build a stronger bond through your shared passion.

Schedule regular video chats

There’s no substitute for seeing a friendly face, even if it’s through a screen. Scheduling regular video calls with your mates is a fantastic way to maintain that sense of connection and feel like you’re catching up properly. 

Video call platforms like Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime make it easier than ever to have a virtual face-to-face. Plan a weekly catch-up, a virtual movie night with a shared streaming service or even a digital games night – the possibilities are endless!

Connect on social media

Social media gets a bad rap sometimes, but it can be a powerful tool for staying in touch with friends – especially those scattered geographically. Follow your friends on their favourite platforms, such as Instagram or Twitter. Like and comment on their posts, share your own updates and use direct messaging features to have private conversations. Social media can be a great way to share snippets of your life, from holiday snaps to funny memes, keeping your friends in the loop and fostering a sense of connection, even if you can’t be together physically.

Finding balance in modern friendships

Despite the challenges of our busy lives, there are plenty of ways you can use technology to nurture your friendships. Yet the methods we’ve outlined above can’t replace the value of face-to-face interaction. After all, laughter echoing through a virtual chatroom is a wonderful thing, but there’s nothing quite like the sound of shared joy in the same physical space.