Social connections are essential for our overall health and well-being. Extensive research has demonstrated that strong social ties are associated with a longer life, while loneliness and social isolation can lead to poor health, depression, and an increased risk of premature death. Social connection is closely related to mental and emotional health. When people feel connected, they experience lower levels of anxiety and depression.
Additionally, feeling connected helps create more empathy between us, resulting in stronger relationships across our community. When social networks are used for social support and connection, they are linked to lower levels of depression and anxiety. These three health issues can lead to long-term health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer, but a varied social network can help protect against physical deterioration. In this way, social connection creates a positive feedback cycle of social, emotional, and physical well-being. Social connection doesn't necessarily mean being physically present with people in a literal sense, but rather someone's subjective experience of feeling understood and connected to others. While being at home is comfortable and has its advantages, connecting in person has considerable benefits. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how a lack of social connection made many of us feel stressed, isolated, and alone.
A study conducted at a free health clinic in Buffalo, New York found that respondents with perceived insufficient social support were the most likely to suffer from mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Studies have revealed that people who have broader and more diverse types of social ties tend to live longer. One way to strengthen your social connections is to communicate with people you already know, such as co-workers, family members, school friends, or neighbors. Remember that social connections that affect your overall health and well-being may start with coffee with milk or a shared meal, but they take time and effort.
