Social Connections

Strengthen meaningful connections. Support long-term cardiometabolic health.

 Social Connection 

Cartoon family holding a large pink heart

The sense of closeness and belonging within meaningful relationships.

Social Isolation and Loneliness: A Growing Concern

Social isolation and loneliness are on the rise.

  • 1 in 4 adults report lacking social and emotional support.
  • ~25% of adults report having no one to talk to about personal concerns.
  • 1 in 3 adults report feeling lonely.
  • Rates of social isolation and loneliness are increasing globally.

Social connection shapes daily experience and long-term health.

How Social Isolation Influences Health

Social Isolation: Health Impacts

  • Increased risk of anxiety and depression
  • Increased risk of suicidal ideation and self-harm
  • Greater exposure to stress and adverse life events
  • Increased systemic inflammation
  • Impaired immune function
  • Decline in cognitive function and increased risk of dementia
  • Reduced life expectancy

Social Isolation: Cardiometabolic Impacts

  • Increased risk of coronary artery disease
  • Increased risk of heart failure and stroke
  • Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
  • Higher risk of hypertension
  • Weight gain and metabolic dysregulation

Social isolation is associated with increased risk of premature mortality.

Red broken heart icon with jagged crack

How Social Connections Influence Health Positively

Social connection influences health through behavioral, psychological, and physiological pathways.

Social connections promoting physical and mental wellbeing

Social isolation harms health. Social connection supports healing.

 Ways to Stay Connected 

Join Community Groups

  • Local clubs
  • Volunteer organizations
  • Support groups

 

Stay Connected

  • Phone calls
  • Messages
  • Social media (used intentionally)

Engage in Shared Activities

  • Exercise classes
  • Hobby groups
  • Group outings

 

Seek Support When Needed

 

If feelings of loneliness persist, consider speaking with a mental health professional.

Maroon abstract community logo with three people

Strong relationships support long-term cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Building meaningful social connections is a key lifestyle pillar for cardiometabolic health. 

Explore Aikyaa Heart Health programs to learn more.

 Ways to Stay Connected 

Join Community Groups

  • Local clubs
  • Volunteer organizations
  • Support groups

 

Stay Connected

  • Phone calls
  • Messages
  • Social media (used intentionally)

Engage in Shared Activities

  • Exercise classes
  • Hobby groups
  • Group outings

 

Seek Support When Needed

 

If feelings of loneliness persist, consider speaking with a mental health professional.

Maroon abstract community logo with three people

Strong relationships support long-term cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Building meaningful social connections is a key lifestyle pillar for cardiometabolic health. 

Explore Aikyaa Heart Health programs to learn more.

Continue exploring key lifestyle pillars, health topics, and resources.

When ready, learn more about Aikyaa programs.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

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“Aikyaa” refers to Aikyaa Heart Health & Wellness PLLC.