We have seen in previous posts how social connection and relationships plays a pivotal role in bettering our mental and physical health. But what happens when we have the opposite? What happens when, instead of being connected and in supportive relationships, we experience social disconnection? Researchers have continued to study the adverse effects of isolation and unhealthy relationships in individuals’ lives, especially post pandemic, and have noted how it effects our physical and mental health outcomes.

Close relationships are vital to our health in ways we may not realize every day. We do notice how good it feels to be praised by a loved one, to get a comforting hug or reassurance in times of sadness, and to be cheered on by our friends and family. But just how much power do these relationships have on our emotional health?