Social Connection
Regular positive interactions with friends, family, and community members foster emotional support, reduce stress, and enhance mental well-being and resilience.
GREAT FOR
Social connection refers to the quality and quantity of your relationships with others. Humans are inherently social beings, and meaningful connections with friends, family, and community members are fundamental to mental health and well-being. Research consistently shows that strong social connections reduce stress, enhance resilience, improve immune function, and even increase longevity. Positive social interactions release oxytocin and other feel-good hormones, while reducing cortisol (the stress hormone). In contrast, loneliness and social isolation are significant risk factors for depression, anxiety, and various physical health problems. Cultivating and maintaining meaningful relationships is one of the most powerful ways to support your mental health.