3. Socialization
Cultivating social networks of friends, family, and even pets, can help foster trust, support, and relaxation. There is ample evidence that satisfying social relationships are crucial for both mental and physical health. Specifically, we know that loneliness increases risks of cardiovascular diseases and levels of stress and decreases quality of sleep. It has been linked with depression too. Loneliness is more strongly associated with how many close relationships one has than with mere contact with one’s social network members. This suggests that maintaining good relationships with a few close friends may be key to managing stress and staying healthy.