Socializing saves us, in times of blackout… and in any crisis

IIn times of crisis, whether prolonged or isolated, such as the recent widespread power outage in Spain, interacting with others – even strangers – is key to our psychological resilience. This urge to socialise is deeply rooted in our biology and evolution.

Human beings depend on cooperation to survive. Matthew Lieberman, director of the Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory at the University of California, Los Angeles, describes the human brain as fundamentally social, equating our need for connection with that for food or water. When we interact positively, our brain releases oxytocin, dopamine and endorphins, neurotransmitters that reduce stress and strengthen physical and mental health.

Similarly, the stress response system, regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, shows remarkable sensitivity to the presence of others. Neuroimaging studies reveal that the areas of the brain associated with fear and uncertainty calm down when we are accompanied.

The paradox of isolation

Despite this biological programming, contemporary crises often lead to withdrawal. Research in seven countries showed that more than a third of young people show symptoms of social anxiety, reaching 58% in the United States. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this phenomenon: the WHO reported a 25% increase in global cases of anxiety and depression.

Paradoxically, it is when we most need connection that we tend to isolate ourselves the most, which exacerbates the negative effects of the crisis.

Socialisation against uncertainty

‘Intolerance to uncertainty’ – the difficulty in coping with a lack of control – increases vulnerability to anxiety disorders. At the opposite end of the spectrum, socialising offers a powerful buffer: sharing experiences normalises emotions, diversifies perspectives and facilitates access to reassuring information.

For example, after the 2011 tsunami in Japan, survivors with greater social support showed significantly lower rates of psychological disorders, even when accounting for the same level of exposure to trauma.

Connecting with others, even strangers, is key to our psychological resilience. Tayfun Yaman/Shutterstock

The power of casual conversations

Deep relationships are not the only ones that protect us. ‘Weak ties’ — brief interactions with strangers — also have positive effects. One study showed that chatting with strangers on public transport improves mood, despite initial negative expectations.

These small connections activate reward circuits in the brain and directly counteract the effects of chronic stress.

Hyperconnection. Pixabay

Technology: bridge or barrier?

During the pandemic, video calls and messages allowed us to maintain connections, offering benefits similar to face-to-face interactions. However, increased use of social media has also been linked to higher levels of social anxiety, especially among young people.

The problem arises when digital communication replaces, rather than complements, face-to-face interactions. After lockdown, many have experienced ‘social re-entry anxiety’, highlighting the limitations of exclusively virtual connections.

Practical strategies

To strengthen our social resilience in turbulent times, we can incorporate a series of strategies into our lives that not only improve emotional well-being but also strengthen physical health through immune and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

The keys are to prioritise safe face-to-face interactions and establish regular social routines, such as meeting up with family or friends on a regular basis. It is also important to value weak ties, those moments when we talk to the person sitting next to us on the train or the cashier at the supermarket. It is also advisable to participate in community activities, gradually share personal experiences and limit excessive consumption of negative news.

On the other hand, crisis management must integrate public policies that strengthen social cohesion. Communication campaigns should promote collective values and mutual support. Meanwhile, distancing policies – such as those implemented during the pandemic – should consider safe alternatives for social connection.

In education, promoting social and emotional skills is essential to prepare societies to be more resilient in the face of future crises.

Casual conversation. Pixabay

Ultimately, when uncertainty invites us to isolate ourselves, the appropriate response is to deepen our human connections. From casual conversations to strong community ties, every interaction protects our mental and physical health. In a world of constant change, investing in social relationships is not a luxury: it is an evolutionary necessity and essential medicine.