Healthspan: The significance of social connection

December 9, 2025 - The World Health Organization (WHO) now recognizes social connection as a global public health priority. Social connectedness is a basic human need, critical to our mental and physical health — as important as food and shelter. The following illustrates just what makes social health so important and how to prioritize it in your everyday life.

Are we more isolated than ever?

With the vast availability of social networks and online access to just about any part of the world, it feels easier than ever to connect with others. However, these amenities may be exactly what is causing the modern “epidemic of loneliness,” particularly in older adults.

“Years after the U.S. began to slowly emerge from mandatory COVID-19 lockdowns, more than half of older adults still spend more time at home and less time socializing in public spaces than they did pre-pandemic, according to new CU Boulder research.”

The true impact of social isolation

Loneliness doesn’t just affect our moods — social isolation is connected to our physical health, which in turn impacts our immunity. Expanding on our focus on proactive immune health, social connectedness can actually strengthen your immune system. A study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine states, “Social contact is associated with increased antiviral immunity,” and can even reduce inflammation.

But loneliness impacts far more than just your immune system. Research proves that social isolation is actually worse for you than smoking. This isn’t conjecture — The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community states: “The mortality impact of being socially disconnected is similar to that caused by smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day, and even greater than that associated with obesity and physical inactivity.”

The advisory goes on to say that isolation and lack of social connection in general have been proven to increase the risk of:

• Premature death
• Contracting viruses and respiratory illness
• Disease (specifically heart disease and stroke)
• Anxiety, depression and dementia

“Social connection, like exercise, is a preventative strategy as well as a treatment strategy for chronic conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and depression.” –Paper in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine

The science of social connectedness

Humans are social creatures by nature, which means we need regular, productive interactions with others. According to the paper published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, “Some psychiatrists go so far as comparing social connection to vitamins: ‘just as we need vitamin C each day, we also need a dose of the human moment—positive contact with other people.’”

The potential health benefits of social connection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), include longer life and better overall health and well-being. It can improve:

• Healthy eating habits
• Physical activity level
• Quality of sleep
• Our ability to manage stress, anxiety, and depression

Additional research confirms “social connection factors as independent predictors of mental and physical health, with some of the strongest evidence on mortality.” These findings are supported by another study, which concluded that “good social connections...are associated with slower cognitive decline.”

Practical advice for combating loneliness

The American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine article recommends connecting with at least one other person in a meaningful way daily, or once a week at an absolute minimum. “Experiencing a sense of belonging to a group is also beneficial, and engaging in group activities once a week or at least once a month is a good place for patients to start.”

Here are a few more tips based on recommendations from the CDC:

Strengthen existing relationships.

• Focus on quality, not quantity. Prioritize deepening existing relationships by reaching out or scheduling time to meet.
• Be responsive, supportive and grateful. Reply to messages in a timely manner and thank people when they reach out.
• Mend meaningful relationships. Practice communication skills by seeking clarification and addressing negative feelings if they arise.

Leverage technology to connect with others.

• Find your crowd. Join common-interest Facebook groups or create a text message group chat with your neighbors.
• Connect with the community. Look up volunteer opportunities online or visit your local library for ideas on how to get involved.
• Pick up the phone. Schedule regular phone calls or video chats with loved ones who live far away.

Think outside the box.

• Don’t overlook the ordinary. Buddy up for basic everyday tasks (e.g., running errands, physical activities or having lunch).
• Head outdoors. Go on a nature walk, visit a local farmers market or start a community garden.
• Learn something new. Sign up for a class, workshop or educational course.

Parting advice

At HumanGood, we know that relationships are the key ingredient in the recipe for a happy and healthy life. Our advice? Give as much as you get, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. There are so many great connections waiting for you just beyond its borders!

And for those seeking additional ways to stay healthy, expect more healthspan tips in the months to come!