Research into the importance of social connections has given the expression ‘friends for life’ a new meaning.

It has highlighted the importance of all types of meaningful social connections for greater longevity and physical health.

These social connections may be with a spouse or romantic partner, friend, work colleague, neighbour or even the shopkeeper at the corner store.

Studies have revealed all these relationships that we value and nurture reduce stress and have a positive effect not just on our hearts but many aspects of good health.

Equally, those without these binding ties tend to suffer loneliness, depression and ultimately poorer health and an earlier death.

Here are the ways that social connections improve our physical health. 

Reduced risk of heart disease

Strong social connections are linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and hypertension.

Without them, research indicates there is a 51 per cent increased risk of heart disease and a 32 per cent increased risk of stroke.

People with strong support networks tend to enjoy lower blood pressure, healthier heart rates and lower cholesterol levels than those who are socially isolated.

These support networks help absorb the effects of stress and limit the secretion of stress hormones like cortisol which are detrimental to cardiovascular health.

Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels lead to inflammation which is a known risk factor for heart disease.

Stronger immune systems

People with strong social connections have stronger immune systems and responses making them less susceptible to infections, colds and many other diseases.

One study found they contributed to a 40 per cent reduced risk of elevated inflammation over a lifespan.

This is because social interactions stimulate the production of immune-boosting molecules while reducing inflammation.

Isolation has the opposite effect.

Studies have shown lonely individuals produce fewer antibodies in response to vaccines, indicating a weaker immune response.

Greater longevity 

Rather definitively, studies point towards social connections leading towards greater longevity.

A 2015 paper in the U.S. reviewing 70 studies of more than 3.4 million people found loneliness and social isolation were responsible for a 30 per cent increase in all form mortality.

Social isolation is regarded as big a risk factor for an early grave as smoking, obesity and physical inactivity.

Lonely people express fewer genes associated with antiviral responses.

This can lead to chronic inflammation that triggers cardiovascular diseases and cancer, causing premature death.

Improved mental health

Positive social connections clearly result in improved mental health, reducing the risk of depression, anxiety and other stress-related disorders.

This in turn improves physical health.

When we are happy, neurotransmitters and hormones like oxytocin and dopamine are released which enhance our mood and reduce the production of stress hormones.

The suppression of these stress hormones improves digestion, sleep and reduces headaches.

Increased tolerance of pain

Curiously, social connections appear to increase an individual’s tolerance level to pain.

Social bonding and trust trigger the release of endogenous opioids or endorphins which are the body’s natural painkillers.

Actions such as holding the hand of a loved one or even just seeing the face of a close friend or partner helps reduce discomfort.

Healthier lifestyle choices

Socially connected people are more likely to engage in healthier lifestyle choices and behaviours such as exercising and eating well.

They are also less likely to adopt riskier behaviours such as smoking, substance abuse and excessive drinking.

That is because positive social networks provide feedback, encouragement and accountability which motivate individuals to lead healthier lives.

Improved sleep hygiene

Better sleep quality is another benefit for people who enjoy a strong network of relationships.

The reverse is true for lonely people who often find themselves suffering from poorer sleeping patterns.

Anxiety and stress interfere with sleep causing isolated people to wake more often during the night.

It also takes them longer to get back to sleep and slip into a deeper, healthier sleep.

Book an appointment

The evidence linking the benefits of developing strong and positive relationships with greater happiness and in turn better physical health is overwhelming.

But this should not come as any great surprise.

Humans are inherently wired for connection.

When this occurs, are bodies release a number of hormones that make us feel better and improve our physical health.

Conversely, if this fails to occur, the reverse is true.

That is precisely why people suffering feelings of loneliness and isolation or who struggle to form meaningful relationships should seek help.

And the best place to start is a visit to your GP.

At AHA Clinics, friendly GPs understand the enormous health benefits of positive social connections.

More importantly, they can suggest ways you can build new relationships, help you grow your confidence and self-esteem and align you with support networks and community groups that can shine a new light on your life.

Loneliness and depression is all too common and it is important to understand you are not alone.

Please do not suffer in silence.

Take the first step on your path towards a brighter, more connected future.

Book an appointment here today at either our Seaford Road Day and Night Clinic or our Seaford Meadows Day and Night Clinic.