Vital threads of real-life contact
January 21, 2025
Anab Omar explores how isolation impacts our wellbeing
Growing up, I was always reliant on friends and family for support. Whether it’s making significant decisions or getting through a rough patch, I find myself gravitating towards my social circle for clarity and comfort.
As the years pass, I grow more curious about how we, as humans, need connection to thrive. I wonder how influential social relationships are in shaping our lives, and more importantly, how do the people we know impact us, even when they’re absent?
I began to investigate the positive effects of having a secure social circle. I came across a research paper by American psychologists, Diener and Seligman, titled, Very Happy People, which identifies strong links between robust social bonds and better mental health.
Their study reveals that the top 10% of consistently happy people are highly social and able to maintain strong romantic relationships. These individuals were found to be ‘more extroverted, more agreeable, and less neurotic.’ They also showed reduced scores on several psychopathology scales of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory test.
Hugs enhance emotional wellbeing by releasing oxytocin, helping reduce loneliness and anxiety
Interestingly, this group didn’t exercise or engage in religious activities any more than the less happy groups. The only consistent variable was good social relations.
These results made me think about how a lack of personal interactions can affect people. Most of all, I began to question how the effects of COVID-19 and the rise of technology have impacted these bonds.
The World Happiness Report highlights that when the pandemic began in March 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced guidelines for maintaining a 2-meter distance to prevent the spread of COVID-19. While emphasising physical distancing, WHO also stressed the importance of staying socially and emotionally connected.
Despite this, many people were missing out on physical interaction. A recent report by VeryWell Mind shows that hugging lowers blood pressure, reduces heart rate, and decreases cortisol, improving sleep and relieving stress. Hugs also enhance emotional well-being by releasing oxytocin, which helps reduce loneliness and anxiety.
Without these valuable connections, many people feel more alone than ever. In 2020, Mind reported that 88% of young people said loneliness made their mental health worse during the pandemic.
The constant presence of technology makes it harder to focus on meaningful conversations
While it’s easier than ever to communicate, I find that texting and social media often replaces in-person meetups. Messaging online might make it easier to stay in touch, but it can’t replace the genuine bonds formed through shared real-life experiences.
I’ve noticed that the constant presence of technology makes it harder to focus on meaningful conversations. There’s always another TikTok to watch, article to read, or profile to look at. Shorter attention spans and the constant need for dopamine rushes have got in the way of the forming of deeper bonds with others. Social media has changed the quality of many relationships, allowing us to filter our lives and share only the best, most polished versions of ourselves.
Physical touch and social connections have a profound impact on our mental and physical health. The pandemic, paired with the rise of technology, has made me reconsider how much we take these interactions for granted. It’s reminded me to prioritise real moments with those I care about and appreciate the power of simply being present with someone.
So, to anyone reading this, take time to value the positive relationships in your life. Check in on your siblings in person, go out with your friends, and make sure you don’t become isolated from what truly matters.
