Laurie Santos, a scientist researching social connection and happiness, discusses the impact of loneliness and the power of social connection. She highlights the importance of connecting in real time, even through technological means. The podcast also explores the importance of social connection for happiness and debunks misconceptions about what makes us happy. Additionally, it addresses the issue of loneliness and the value of intergenerational friendships.
Loneliness is a significant public health issue that affects nearly half of Americans, and it is important to address it on interpersonal, relational, and community levels.
Social connection not only alleviates loneliness but also fosters joy and well-being, emphasizing the need to prioritize social connection as a public health concern.
Deep dives
The Impact of Loneliness on Public Health
Loneliness is a significant public health issue, with nearly 40% of Americans reporting poor mental health and about half experiencing loneliness. Loneliness can be understood in three ways: interpersonal, relational, and community. To combat loneliness, it is essential to address all three levels. Connecting in real-time is crucial, as it provides the most value in terms of social connection. While in-person interactions are ideal, technology can facilitate real-time connections. The consequences of loneliness on mental health and overall well-being, such as addiction, stress, and physical health deterioration, highlight the need to prioritize social connection as a public health concern.
The Power of Social Connection
Social connection not only alleviates loneliness but also fosters joy and well-being. Studies show that engaging in conversations with strangers, even for introverts, increases positive emotions. The misconception that happiness depends on major achievements leads people to overlook the significance of social connection in daily life. Small moments of social interaction, such as complimenting a stranger or smiling at someone, can have a profound positive impact on well-being. Social connection can be a powerful tool for improving one's own happiness and spreading joy to others.
The Role of Social Connection in Society
Loneliness is not only an individual issue but also has broader societal implications. Loneliness can contribute to echo chambers and polarization as people seek belonging and validation in online communities. Additionally, the decline of community connections and organizations has reduced opportunities for people of differing opinions and backgrounds to come together. By addressing loneliness and fostering social connection, it is possible to bridge divides and promote civic engagement, leading to positive changes in society and public health.
According to the Surgeon General, about one in two American adults report experiencing loneliness. As self-help voices continue cropping up in every corner of the internet on staving off loneliness and finding happiness, Laurie Santos of Yale--host of The Happiness Lab podcast--brings a scientific perspective. She says research tell us we're bad at knowing what makes us feel good, but that getting better at it could have far-reaching consequences for society as a whole: "Ultimately, social connection really needs to be our bottom line in terms of public health."
Finding connection in lonely times: Why it may matter more than we ever realized.
Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Alex Sugiura, and Fonda Mwangi. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at podcasts@axios.com. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893.