We’ve all heard the phrase “people need people,” right? Well, it turns out, it’s not just a warm, fuzzy sentiment — it’s backed by science. Keeping close to friends and family isn’t just good for your soul; it’s also great for your mind and body. Whether you’re swapping stories, venting about a bad day, or just laughing over dinner, those interactions have a profound impact on your well-being.
Let’s explore the many reasons staying connected with loved ones is one of the best things you can do for your health.
The mental health boost: Happiness, reduced stress, and more
Humans are hard-wired to be social creatures. From the very beginning, our brains evolved to thrive in groups. You don’t need to be a scientist to know that spending time with people you care about just feels good, but the research backs it up too.
A 2023 study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found that people who maintained regular, meaningful connections with family and friends reported lower levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Why? It’s simple: socializing increases the production of dopamine and oxytocin — the so-called “feel-good hormones.” (They’re called this because they feel good when they’re in your body.) These chemicals create feelings of joy, bonding, and calm, which can help you navigate life’s inevitable stressors.
Another recent study in The Lancet Psychiatry (2022) discovered that people who feel more connected to others are 50% less likely to suffer from serious mental health issues like chronic anxiety or depression. And we’re not just talking about big social events — the research showed that even a quick text or call can have this positive effect.
Pro tip: Not in the mood for face-to-face? Or does your BFF live on the other side of the planet? Virtual catch-ups count too! The quality of interaction is what matters most.
Physical health perks: From your heart to your immune system
Here’s where things get really interesting: being socially connected is not only good for your brain, but it also works wonders on your physical health.
Heart health: Feeling supported by friends and family literally warms the heart! According to research published in The American Heart Association Journal (2021), people with strong social networks have a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The study found that those who felt emotionally supported by close relationships had lower blood pressure, less inflammation, and a 30% reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes. Why? Stress — the silent killer — is buffered by positive social interactions. Less stress means a healthier heart.
Immune system superpowers: Social ties may even help you fend off colds and other illnesses. A study from Carnegie Mellon University (2022) revealed that people with rich social lives have stronger immune systems. The study participants who reported feeling socially connected showed greater resilience against common viruses, suggesting that emotional support can directly boost your body’s defense mechanisms.
Longevity: Want to live longer? Stay connected!
If you needed more motivation to call your bestie, how about this: staying socially active can actually help you live longer. A study published in PLOS Medicine (2023) found that people with close social ties are 45% more likely to live longer than those who are more isolated. That’s a mind-blowing statistic!
Isolation and loneliness, on the other hand, have been linked to an increased risk of premature death, even more so than some lifestyle risk factors like smoking or obesity. The same research suggested that isolation might trigger chronic inflammation, which contributes to diseases like Alzheimer’s, cancer, and heart disease. So, staying connected isn’t just a “nice-to-have” — it’s a need-to-have if you’re thinking about long-term health.
(Quick aside: if you’re a science and research geek like me, PLOS Medicine is a publication well worth knowing. “PLOS” stands for “Public Library of Science.” It’s an “open-access” journal, meaning that everyone can access the research published in this reputable, peer-reviewed journal.)
Emotional resilience: How friends and family help you bounce back
Let’s face it. Life throws curveballs. But having a strong support network helps you catch those curveballs with a little more grace. Friends and family often provide emotional support that boosts your resilience in tough times.
When you’re feeling down, stressed, or overwhelmed, having someone to talk to helps put things in perspective. A study by the American Psychological Association (2021) found that people who had a reliable social support system bounced back faster from trauma and stress than those who didn’t. Whether it’s a breakup, job loss, or even the loss of a loved one, having close connections makes those tough situations a little easier to bear.
Tips to stay connected: Keep your relationships thriving
So, we know that staying close to friends and family is a ticket to better health, but what if your schedule is jam-packed or you feel like you’re not good at maintaining connections? Don’t worry — staying connected doesn’t need to be a full-time job. Here are a few easy ways to keep the love alive:
- Schedule regular check-ins: Set a recurring calendar reminder to text or call a loved one. Even a 10-minute chat can keep your connection strong.
- Find common interests: Join a virtual book club (or an in-person one), start a walking group, or plan regular movie nights with friends or family. Shared activities make it easier to stay in touch.
- Embrace tech: Whether it’s FaceTime, Zoom, email, or an old-fashioned phone call, technology makes staying connected easier than ever.
- How about snail mail? Wow. What if you were to send a sweet card to a friend or family member – how cool would that be? (You could actually use a pen and write something nice and sign it and everything…)
- Celebrate small moments: Don’t wait for a holiday or birthday to reach out. Celebrate little wins together — like finishing a project at work or completing a charity walkathon.
In summary: People are your best medicine
So there you have it — science-backed reasons to keep those friends and family members close. Whether it’s a heart-to-heart chat, a virtual game night, or just a supportive message on a rough day, staying connected is one of the best investments you can make in your mental and physical health.
Who knew that simply hanging out with your favorite people could boost your immune system, lower your stress levels, and help you live longer? So, grab your phone, send a message, plan a coffee date, or just show up with a smile. Your heart, mind, and body will thank you for it!