6/30/2026 Bridget Melton
Written by Bridget Melton
IHSI Diversity Committee Monthly Resources
Each month, the IHSI Diversity Committee shares resources and learning opportunities with the rest of the IHSI staff. Curating and sharing these resources allow us to educate ourselves on various topics related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. As an institute devoted to promoting all forms of health, we want to share these resources more broadly with our campus and community stakeholders. We hope that you will find them as useful as we have.
Social connection and well-being
This month, Fatima Ahmed, IHSI Assistant Research Biostatistician, shares resources to help us better understand differences in how people socialize and the associated effects of social connection on well-being.
As the days get longer and the weather warms up, opportunities to connect with others naturally increase. Spending time with family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues isn't just enjoyable, it also supports overall well-being. Research has shown that meaningful social connections can have a positive impact on both mental and physical health.
There are subtle differences in the effect of socializing due to race, socioeconomic status, or age. One study showed that elevated positive mood in the presence of friends, compared to not being with friends, was only observed among white adults and younger Black participants (41 years old and younger). There are also differences in who we socialize with. Maintaining relationships requires time, effort and resources, and different racial and socio-economic subgroups respond differently in how they socialize. For example, compared to White Americans, Black Americans emphasize family and kinship. In another study, young people felt more understood in same-race relationships, and feeling understood was positively associated with psychological well being. Age also plays a role, and older adults have fewer social relationships.
Benefits of socializing include improved mental well-being by reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation while promoting happiness, confidence, and a sense of belonging, as well as improved physical health through stronger immune function, healthier lifestyle habits, and even increased longevity.
Looking to expand your social circle? Consider the following recommendations:
- Say ‘yes’ more to invitations, or be the first to initiate activities
- Take a class through the local park district or community college
- Join an activity-based group such as a climbing gym, running club, dance class, book club, or volunteer organization
- Use social apps thoughtfully to connect with people who share your interests
- Reach out to old friends, former coworkers, or neighbors to reconnect and catch up