Importance of interpersonal connection?

Interpersonal connections play a vital role in our happiness and well-being. As highlighted by Andrew Huberman, human interactions, even brief ones such as a smile or a nod from a stranger, can significantly boost our mood and create social bonds. This effect is rooted in our brain's anatomy, particularly the fusiform face gyrus, which processes faces and is linked to our emotional responses. Experiencing even minimal social exchanges can enhance feelings of predictability and well-being, supporting our overall happiness. These interactions don’t necessarily need to be deep or long-lasting but can also be brief and surface-level, all contributing positively to our mental health 1.

Furthermore, technology, when used appropriately, can also facilitate these meaningful connections, strengthening our social bonds and enhancing our life satisfaction. This is discussed by Mark Zuckerberg in terms of how social media provides a platform for people to connect meaningfully, which can correlate with significant health benefits and increased longevity 2.