THE ORIGINS
Four years ago when I was a junior in high school, I experienced and noticed the stressful atmosphere many of my peers faced, which reflects our broader society and contemporary culture. After interviewing students, teachers, and mindfulness experts as well as surveying studies and media reports, I learned how much human connection can mean. I am now a human science major at Georgetown University learning about how our internal and external environments and habits shape our lives.
Isolation and loneliness generate poor mental and physical outcomes, and connecting with friends and family are some of the best “medicine” we can take.
HeyDay encourages the kindling and rekindling of friendships. Staying in touch with friends can be hard to maintain especially in our stressful and busy routines, but it can literally save lives.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND HEYDAY
There is tons of research on why friendships and human connection is good for all of our healths. Refer to the articles below for more information and studies on the importance of friendships
Friendships: Enrich your life and improve your health
More and more research shows friends are good for your health
5 Health Benefits of Friendship
7 Ways Friendships Are Great for Your Health
Science Says That Friendships Are Key to Lasting Health and Happiness
Social Media Is Killing Your Friendships
Survival Of The Friendliest: How Our Close Friendships Help Us Thrive
Friendships and family support reduce subsequent depressive symptoms in at-risk adolescents.
Loneliness and Social Isolation as Risk Factors for Mortality
Loneliness Is a Health Hazard, Too
Loneliness May Warp Our Genes, And Our Immune Systems
Coronavirus and isolation: helpful things to remember about loneliness
How to Create Meaningful Connections While Apart
Fostering High-Quality Connections
Culture Is A Company’s Single Most Powerful Advantage. Here’s Why