A few more chats, a happier day

Students felt happier and more like they belonged on days when they talked with more classmates than usual.

The study

In the first study, students reported greater happiness and a stronger sense of belonging on days when they interacted with more classmates than they usually did. Further studies looked at all daily interactions, with close friends and casual acquaintances alike, and found that contact with acquaintances was also linked with social and emotional well-being.

Starting small

Casual contact counts. A short chat with a neighbor, a coworker, or the person at the café counter can be part of a day's connection.