Robert Waldinger Knows the Secret to a Happy Life
The psychiatrist directs the longest study of human life. Here’s what he’s learned about the importance of social connection.
Dr. Robert Waldinger, a psychiatrist, initially doubted the notion that loneliness could negatively impact one's health. This idea stemmed from the Harvard Study of Adult Development, a long-term project that followed individuals for decades. Waldinger became the director of this study in 2003, expanding its scope to include their spouses and more than 1,300 of their children.
The study, which began in 1938 with 724 young men, has provided valuable insights into the relationship between social connections and physical health. The study revealed that socially isolated individuals tend to develop diseases of aging earlier, attributing this to chronic stress. Humans are wired to be in groups for safety, and the lack of connections can lead to less restful sleep.
While the number of friends one has isn't crucial, having someone to rely on during tough times is essential. Research conducted in 2010 showed that strong relationships can increase survival odds by 50%, an effect comparable to obesity and on par with smoking. The Harvard study has been a significant contributor to understanding the connection between social relationships and physical health, and Dr. Waldinger has become a prominent voice in this field.
His 2015 TED Talk on the power of relationships and his 2023 book, The Good Life, have helped bring this research to a broader audience. Dr. Waldinger now prioritizes maintaining connections with friends, recognizing that social connections are fundamental to a healthy and fulfilling life.
Written by urgent.news from Time's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
