HEALTHY LIVING


them feel more than what you said,” says Bryan Bruno, M.D., a board- certified psychiatrist based in New York.


Friendships Keep You Healthy


Being alone raises risk of premature death, dementia, heart disease, say experts. ::


BY JUDY KOUTSKY L


oneliness has been described as a modern epidemic, with studies linking it to serious health


risks comparable to smoking. A report from the U.S. Office of


the Surgeon General found that approximately half of adults say they have experienced loneliness. In addition, the report revealed


that loneliness increases the risk for premature death by nearly 30%. A study by the National Institute


on Aging reports that loneliness was associated with a 31% rise in the likelihood that a person would go on to develop dementia. Other studies have linked loneliness


to increased risk for heart disease, stroke, depression, and anxiety. While the standard advice


for combating loneliness often involves joining clubs or attending community events, many people find these steps daunting. The good news is that there are


numerous creative and low-pressure ways to build connections and feel more socially engaged.


SMALL TALK Starting small talk can feel awkward,


84 NEWSMAX MAXLIFE | MAY 2025


but it’s often the bridge to deeper connections. Begin with simple, situational comments like, “This place has great coffee. Have you been here before?” or “That’s a cute bag, where did you find it?” “Observational statements followed


by open-ended questions encourage dialogue without feeling forced,” says California-based Suzanne Teare, a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in providing therapy to clients navigating social anxiety. Focus less on impressing and


more on being curious about the other person.


CONNECTIONS Focus on connecting with one or two individuals rather than trying to engage everyone in a group. “Position yourself on the periphery


of the group, where conversations tend to be smaller and more manageable,” says Teare. Remind yourself that you don’t


need to say something profound; simply listening and showing interest can make others feel valued. Ask questions about what the


person is sharing. “People remember how you made


MANAGING SHYNESS “Shyness often comes from fear of judgment,” says Teare. “One effective approach is called gradual exposure, where you practice small social steps incrementally.” For example, start by greeting a


cashier or neighbor, then progress to brief conversations with an acquaintance. It’s also helpful to prepare a few conversation starters in advance so you feel more comfortable. Shyness isn’t a flaw — many people


feel the same way. “Set small goals, like talking to one new person each week,” says Bruno.


EMOTIONAL CONNECTION Emotional connections grow from genuine interactions. “The key is active listening: Focus


on what the person is saying, ask follow-up questions, and reflect on their feelings,” says Teare. Sharing small, personal details


about yourself can also encourage others to open up. Vulnerability creates trust and helps move conversations beyond surface level.


ENDING CONVERSATION Many people fear starting a conversation because they don’t know how to end it. “End conversations gracefully by


expressing appreciation and offering closure,” says Teare. “You can say something like, ‘It’s been great chatting with you. I hope we see each other again soon.’” Building social skills takes practice.


Set realistic goals and celebrate progress, even if the interactions are brief.


“Meaningful relationships don’t


form overnight, but consistent effort can transform loneliness into connection and improve mental and physical health,” says Teare.


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