Social Connections: How Human Interaction Shapes Our Well-Being

Humans are, by design, social beings. Although it can be easy for some to be more introverted than others, as a species, we’re designed to be extroverts and to communicate with each other rather than to be left to ourselves.

That said, there’s nothing amiss with a bit of solitude and self-reflection. In fact, it can be quite beneficial and practical, aiding us in navigating challenges and finding the peace necessary for clarity. 

Now, modern changes to our way of life and technology has changed the ways we interact naturally but in the end is this helpful or harmful to our mental health?

How has the internet helped social interaction grow?

At the end of the day we evolved as social animals, so it’s important that we connect and interact with others. This can have an influential impact on our well-being, especially in a world where mental health has become less taboo, and its importance has grown significantly.

The entertainment industry has been an influential driver in encouraging social connections to help shape positive well-being among humans. Many different sectors across the industry have embraced certain features that can create new experiences that can allow people to socialize with each other.

Internet-based entertainment mediums have encouraged connections, such as online game platforms. Online casinos and the Best Social Casinos have provided players with the ability to share their wins and thoughts with each other through the use of chat features. Online gaming platforms have also implemented these features, while some have even incorporated the ability to communicate with each other through voice. The gaming niche has arguably been one of the biggest benefactors of social connections, as co-operative and multiplayer modes have become enhanced due to the ability to game with each other.

Gaming isn’t the only medium to have benefitted from online social interaction, though, as social media has perhaps been the biggest advancement in social connection that we have been able to form. We can use the various platforms that are available to communicate with each other in real-time, without the need to be in one certain location. We can share videos, posts, blogs, and anything else with friends and family and talk about them in a way that is more conducive to the way that we live our lives today.

Should we still be looking for physical interaction?

In today’s age, it can be difficult to escape from the realities that our lives have become more challenging in terms of available time. Technology has been a huge life-saver for many in terms of getting valuable human connection, but it hasn’t truly replaced human interaction.

Although there are technologies like video calls and instant messaging that can allow us to communicate, most humans will require physical touch and connection. Sometimes, it’s just enough to be in the same place as another human, especially when they may live or work on their own and spend the vast majority of their days as a solo individual.

Physical human interaction can release certain hormones in our bodies that are good for us, which can leave a positive lasting impact on our brains and bodies.

Although it can be easy to want to escape everybody and want to ignore them, the chemicals that are released – such as dopamine – are needed for well-being. As humans, all we want is love and affection from our loved ones, as this makes us feel valued, thus providing us with a good feeling that can make life enjoyable and positive.

Written by Austin Crane

Austin is the principle web director for Untamed Science and Stone Age Man. He is also the web-director of the series for the High School biology, Middle Grades Science and Elementary Science content. When Austin isn't making amazing content for the web, he's out on his mountain bike or in a canoe.

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