Better Health Through Better Social Interaction

Adults that are more socially connected are healthier and live longer. Numerous studies show that the quality and quantity of social relationships affect mental, physical and behavioral health, including mortality.

Social relationships have both short-term and long-term effects on health outcomes, for better and worse.

In the article “Social Relationships and Health: A Flashpoint for Health Policy” (Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 2010), the authors noted that social isolation versus social integration evaluates the complexity and quality of relationships and social networks, and the benefits of involvement in a variety of social relationships.

Evidence across numerous studies was consistent: involvement in social relationships benefits all aspects of health for women and men. Social ties reduce mortality risk among adults with medical conditions, including coronary artery disease; biomarkers; impaired immune function; myocardial infarction; atherosclerosis; high blood pressure; cancer; delayed cancer recovery; slower wound healing; inflammatory and mobility issues; sexual health issues; and anxiety, stress and depressive symptoms.

The authors noted, “Captors use social isolation to torture prisoners of war—to drastic effect.” In other words, strained and conflicted social interactions undermine health.

Some social relationships improve health while others are impaired or hindered. For example, men’s health improves with marriage and coupling, but not all relationships have equal outcomes. The studies indicated that negative peer pressure and certain types of socialization can lead to unhealthy outcomes.

In conclusion, the report recommended public policy guidance to promote increased socializing for all age groups to counter the current trends toward isolation.

Jerry Garcia is the medical director and Raymond Wohl is the business manager and patient care coordinator of Chicago Male Clinic, located at 4801 W. Peterson Ave., Ste. 506, Chicago.

Chicago Male Clinic is a holistic health and wellness center for men that treats the whole person from A to Z. Specializing in men’s sexual health, they use natural, noninvasive and nonpharmaceutical approaches to treat erectile difficulties. The clinic offers weekly yoga for men and monthly educational open houses to promote men’s wellness.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 773-414-9900 or visit ChicagoMaleClinic.com.