Why Social Connectedness is Important

Social connection, encompassing relationships with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors, is crucial for individual and population health, community safety, resilience, and prosperity. Despite its importance, many lack adequate social connections, leading to negative outcomes such as poor health and decreased life satisfaction. This issue is particularly pronounced among minorities and marginalized youth, who face higher risks

due to factors beyond their control.

Social isolation and loneliness, while related, are distinct concepts. Social isolation refers to having few social relationships and interactions, whereas loneliness is the distressing feeling of perceived isolation. Both pose significant health risks, increasing the likelihood of premature death by 26% and 29%, respectively. Lack of social connection can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, raising the risk of heart disease, stroke, anxiety, depression, and even dementia.

The economic impact is also substantial. Social isolation among older adults costs an estimated $6.7 billion in Medicare spending annually in the US. Additionally, stress-related absenteeism due to loneliness costs U.S. employers approximately $154 billion annually.

View the U.S. Surgeon General’s report on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and

Community.

US Surgeon Why Social Connection Matters report.pdf

Download PDF • 8.17MB

The Foundation for Talent Transformation helps people develop their social skills by providing free assessments, a helpful conversational chatbot, and resources. These tools foster self-awareness, resilience, and a positive attitude, empowering people to thrive personally and professionally. The Foundation fosters stronger social ties to improve health outcomes, boost academic and workplace performance, and create healthier, safer, and more prosperous communities.