New research which included more than 1,500 participants revealed that attending in person events can combat loneliness and build social connections.
Richard Slatcher, a UGA professor in the department of psychology, and Julianne Holt-Lunstad, Brigham Young University professor of psychology and neuroscience, conducted a study that examined people’s experiences before and after attending various events.
The research found that if people want to feel more socially connected, they should attend in person events that encourage participation. “The average person looking to feel less isolated might benefit from something as accessible as a weekly fitness class or local concert with friends," said Slatcher.
Attending events in person and participating in recurring events enhances the feelings of social connections. The feelings weren't sustained 24 hours after the event. The study suggested the need for regular participation in events to maintain benefits.
“Humans are fundamentally social beings,” Holt-Lunstad said. “In a world that is increasingly isolated, gathering people via live events might be one way to start reversing these trends.”
