University of Kent scientists have discovered that strong social connections can improve physical health and psychological well-being.
The results of the research were published in the journal Science Advances.
Psychiatrists analyzed data collected by more than 13,000 people from 122 countries during the quarantine. With the help of questionnaires, scientists assessed people’s social connections with family and friends.
Scientists have found that people with strong family ties are more likely to wash their hands, maintain social distancing and wear protective masks during the pandemic. The study also found that having strong ties to both close people and large groups (such as government) was associated with better mental health and well-being.
Only 27% of those surveyed had strong ties to their families. The authors of the paper suggest that health systems can reduce the costs of drug therapy by prescribing people to strengthen social bonds.