Why Relationships Matter

Relationships matter and are the heart of human experience—they’re essential to our sense of belonging and well-being. While physical needs like food and shelter sustain us, it’s our social bonds that nourish our hearts and minds. Whether it’s the love of a partner, the camaraderie of friends, or the support of a community, these connections create a foundation for happiness, security, and growth.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the importance of connection, but research and experience reveal that fulfilling relationships impact everything from our physical health to our emotional resilience. One study, which examined data from more than 309,000 people, found that lack of strong relationships increased the risk of premature death from all causes by 50% — an effect on mortality risk roughly comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day, and greater than obesity and physical inactivity.

The number, quality and frequency of connections truly support our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.