Human are social beings. Socialization – specifically positive, cooperative socialization – is physiologically hardwired into our brain and body. We have evolved our millions of years to enjoy the company of others. When we are deprived of this social connection, the psychological toll is large.

Loneliness has been estimated to shorten our lives by 15 years, which is the equivalent of smoking 15 cigarettes per day. Loneliness can increase blood pressure and increase the rate of cardiovascular disease and cancer. The feeling can even accelerate cognitive decline in our later years.

In the United States, 61% of young adults experience serious loneliness. With loneliness as the biggest factor, young adults experience the highest levels of burn-out of any cohort. Looking globally, adults really struggle with forming strong social connection:

• 25% of adults feel unable to maintain a strong connection with family
• 39% of adults feel unable to maintain a strong connection with colleagues
• 50% w of adults feel unable to maintain a strong connection with friends

If you want to decrease premature death by 50%, increase personal resilience and get ahead in your career, it’s good to make a friend!