The science of connection
How real-life interactions benefit our mental and physical health
How are you feeling today? Burned out? Tired? Sick of looking at your computer, phone, and TV screens? Exhausted of Instagram and TikTok?
The Bad News
The statistics on loneliness, depression, and digital fatigue are, in a word, alarming. Here are some statistics that should make you evaluate how you’re spending your time (sources 1, 2, 3 and 4):
People who report spending 2+ hours/day on social media had twice the odds of perceived social isolation than those who said they spent <30 minutes/day on those sites
Yet, a survey of 8th and 10th graders found the average time spent on social media is 3.5, hours per day, 1-in-4 spend 5+ hours per day and 1-in-7 spend 7+ hours per day on social media
People who visit social media platforms 58+ times/week had 3x likelihood of perceived social isolation than those who visited <9 times/week (think 58+ times/week sounds like a lot? Research shows that Americans, on average, check phone 144 times per day, or 1,008 times per week)
A study conducted among 14-year-olds found that greater social media use predicted poor sleep, online harassment, poor body image, low self-esteem, and higher depressive symptom scores
When asked about the impact of social media on their body image, nearly 46% of adolescents aged 13–17 said social media makes them feel worse, 40% said it makes them feel neither better nor worse, and only 14% said it makes them feel better
64% of adolescents are “often” or “sometimes” exposed to hate-based content
For people aged 50 or older, social isolation was associated with about a 50% percent increased risk of dementia. Poor social relationships were associated with a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke
The Good News
We have so much research on what makes us healthy, happy, and live longer:
The Psychological Benefits of Connection
Humans are inherently social creatures, evolved to live in communities and form bonds with one another. This evolutionary trait is not just about survival; it's also about thriving. Studies have shown that people with strong social connections have lower levels of anxiety and depression, higher self-esteem, greater empathy, and more trust and cooperation with others. For instance, a study published in the "American Psychologist" journal highlights that meaningful social interactions can significantly reduce stress and improve mood, highlighting the importance of community and belonging in our lives.
Physical Health and Longevity
The influence of social connections extends beyond our mental health to our physical well-being. Research has consistently shown that individuals with robust social networks have a reduced risk of many significant health problems, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even premature death. An analytic review published in "PLOS Medicine" found that people with strong social relationships increased their odds of survival over a given period by 50%, underscoring the critical role that relationships play in our physical health. Finally, Harvard’s 84-year-old study on happiness determined that meaningful relationships are the single most important aspect of happiness and longevity.
The Role of Technology in Connection
While technology has revolutionized the way we communicate, making it easier to stay in touch with friends and family across the globe, it cannot fully replicate the benefits of in-person interactions. The tactile sensations of a handshake, the warmth of a hug, and the nuanced expressions of face-to-face conversations have profound effects on our brain chemistry. For example, physical touch releases oxytocin, sometimes referred to as the "cuddle hormone," which reduces stress and promotes feelings of trust and bonding.
Conclusion
As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, it's crucial to strike a balance between leveraging the conveniences of technology and nurturing our inherent need for human connection. Incorporating regular social activities into our lives, prioritizing quality time with loved ones, and engaging in community service are just a few ways we can foster a sense of belonging and improve our overall well-being. We built Glow as a way to harness technology to foster real-world connections.
In a world where every technology company is trying to addict you to their product, it's easy to forget the power of real-life interactions and how they benefit our mental and physical health. The science behind human connection provides a compelling argument for why we should prioritize face-to-face relationships.
By making a conscious effort to build and maintain strong social bonds, we can combat the adverse effects of loneliness and lead happier, healthier lives.
Let’s Glow,
Austin