Social Connectivity

Let’s take a look at another ‘S’ of the pillars of Lifestyle Medicine; Social Connectivity.

Did you know? The single most important predictor of happiness and longevity is having social connections. This has been proven through Harvard’s Longest Study on Happiness. 

Social isolation and experiences of loneliness have been linked to increased mortality and morbidity. Findings from studies conducted in space missions, space analogs, and during the COVID-19 pandemic indicate that our body perceives social isolation as a threat, triggering the activation of our stress response. While this response is adaptive in the short term, enabling individuals to cope with perceived threats, its prolonged effects have adverse impacts on mental and physical health. This can result in mood disturbances, an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, and imbalances in immune system activation. 

Therefore when we stay socially connected, we are combating the risks of chronic inflammation and subsequently reap a variety of positive outcomes, both mentally and physically. The presence of a community where you feel a sense of belonging, along with supportive and inclusive connections, enhances your capacity to overcome stress, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, it diminishes the likelihood of chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Improved sleep is also a notable benefit. Our cognitive health is shielded by social connection, which is why it is so vital. Our ability to withstand diseases like dementia and maintain our cognitive reserve can both be enhanced by social connection. In essence, having high-quality social connections contributes to an overall enhancement of well-being and quality of life.

Don’t underestimate the Power of Connection!

References:

1. Kelly, J., & Clayton, J. S. (2021). Foundations of Lifestyle Medicine Board Review Manual (3rd ed.). ACLM.

2. Tools and resources. American College of Lifestyle Medicine. (2023, July 10). https://lifestylemedicine.org/tools-and-resources/