Good friends help us to develop our self-esteem, says Belleghem. "Having someone in our life who thinks we are important -- someone who wants our opinion on things and who values our company -- makes us feel wanted, boosting self-esteem," she explains. Best friends will also be totally honest with us, Belleghem says.

Do we really need a best friend?

Having a best friend has potential risks and benefits, so it really comes down to your personal preferences, boundaries, and what you value in a relationship. If you value freedom and variety, perhaps a multitude of diverse relationships will feel more satisfying to you.

Why are best friends so special?

Friendship is a beautiful thing to share with someone you care about. You'll share laughs, snacks, tears, and a whole lot of irreplaceable memories. When you look back on all you've done together, you'll actually begin to notice what an important part of your life your best friend is.