It's July! The month of the 4th, summer celebrations, family vacations, cookouts, and... Social Wellness Month! What an appropriate time, when the sun is shining (or perhaps we should say beating?) down on us, it seems easier to connect with others. And according to studies, our society could use a lot more of that--deep connections that are the antidote to loneliness and feelings of isolation.
The article "Why Social Bonds Are So Important for Our Health" by Mo Perry explores the profound impact that social connection has on both mental and physical health. It's quite a long article, so I've broken it down for you below. If you're curious, do go on and read the actual article, as well as some other resources in the links below. And if you're ready to do something today to combat the loneliness in your own life, or that of someone you care about, go straight to #5!
Social isolation is an objective lack of social contact; loneliness is a subjective feeling of disconnection, even when surrounded by others.
Both can have significant negative impacts on health, but loneliness is especially damaging due to its emotional and cognitive effects.
Even before the pandemic, Americans reported decreasing numbers of close confidants.
During and after COVID-19, loneliness surged, especially among younger generations.
Loneliness is now widely recognized as an epidemic with serious societal consequences.
Linked to a 26% increased risk of early death, comparable to smoking and greater than obesity.
Increases risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and impaired immune function.
Also tied to poor sleep, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
It acts like a survival signal — similar to hunger or thirst — alerting us to unmet social needs.
Triggers hypervigilance and mistrust, which reinforces social withdrawal and creates a harmful feedback loop.
The brain becomes self-focused, making it harder to form or maintain relationships.
Recovery often requires interrupting the loneliness spiral through behavioral, cognitive, and social interventions.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, exercise, and intentional social engagement can help rewire negative thought patterns and improve connection.
Stephanie Cacioppo offers the GRACE strategy to build social bonds:
Gratitude – Foster appreciation to shift focus from loneliness to abundance.
Reciprocity – Give and receive support to feel needed and valued.
Altruism – Acts of kindness promote a sense of purpose and connection.
Choice – Recognize agency in making decisions that affect emotional health.
Enjoyment – Prioritize fun and shared positive experiences to enhance well-being.
Checking in with others, noticing changes in behavior or tone, and encouraging face-to-face interactions can make a significant difference.
Even small gestures — like inviting someone to volunteer or seeking their advice — can reinforce their sense of worth and connection.