Spending in‑person time with friends is the biggest predictor of whether college students flourish

A 2026 study of nearly 80,000 college students from the United States and Canada has found that spending time with friends in-person is the most significant factor contributing to mental well-being. Contrary to previous beliefs, factors like avoiding alcohol, staying physically active, or getting enough sleep did not emerge as the top predictors of flourishing.

As social interactions through screens have increased, face-to-face communication has declined among young people. Roughly 44% of high school seniors saw friends daily in person in 2010, compared to only 32% in 2022. This shift has raised concerns about the rise in mental health issues among young people, which now claim the second-highest spot among causes of death for those aged 15 to 34, with suicide being the leading cause.

The researchers aimed to identify what truly helps students flourish by examining 51 aspects of their lives, such as substance use, discrimination, financial stress, sleep issues, and relationship challenges. The study analyzed responses from 79,246 college students and discovered that among 51 factors, six were the most influential.

Spending time socializing with friends, attending student organizations, and participating in cultural events had the strongest positive correlation with well-being. Surprisingly, students who devoted more time to work and family obligations also reported higher levels of well-being. The findings suggest that mental well-being is not solely about leisure and self-care but also about contributing to something larger than oneself.

Relationship difficulties, including problems with friends, romantic partners, and roommates, had the strongest negative impact on well-being. The researchers emphasize that cultivating supportive relationships, healthy sleep habits, and meaningful engagement in various aspects of life is crucial for student flourishing. While mental health conditions require professional care, the study highlights that efforts to support students should extend beyond just reducing screen time and include fostering in-person social connections, practicing healthy relationship skills, and encouraging participation in work, school, and community activities.