The Power of Connection

Human connection is at the core of who we are. It shapes our mental, emotional, and physical health, influencing our well-being in ways that modern science is just beginning to understand. Yet, in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, many of us feel more disconnected than ever before.

At Crossroads, we believe that connection isn’t just important—it’s essential. The loneliness and isolation so many people experience are not just personal struggles, they are a public health issue. This page explores the transformative power of connection and why it is such an important part of what we do here at Crossroads.

Why Connection Matters

In today’s world, connection often feels elusive. We may have hundreds of social media contacts, yet feel more isolated than ever. As society has become more fast-paced, and technology more integral to our lives, real human connection has fallen by the wayside. But the need for connection is not just emotional—it’s biological.

According to social neuroscientist Matthew Lieberman, our need for connection is as fundamental as our need for food and water. Humans are wired to be social beings, and when we don’t get enough social connection, it affects our mental and physical health. Lieberman’s research has shown that the same regions of the brain that process physical pain also process social pain. This explains why loneliness can feel as real and as painful as a physical injury.

“Our need to connect is as fundamental as our need for food and water.”
– Matthew Lieberman

Seastian Junger, in his book Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging, points out that human beings evolved to live in small, close-knit communities. In those communities, every person had a role, and there was a deep sense of belonging and purpose. In modern society, we’ve lost this sense of “tribe.” The result? Feelings of disconnection, isolation, and the sense that we are no longer necessary to the fabric of society.

“Humans don’t mind hardship; in fact, they thrive on it. What they mind is not feeling necessary. Modern society has perfected the art of making people not feel necessary.”
– Sebastian Junger

At Crossroads, we aim to recreate that sense of belonging and purpose. Our community is built around the idea that every person matters, every dream is important, and every individual has a role to play in supporting one another. This isn’t just about achieving goals—it’s about feeling like you are an essential part of a supportive community.

The Health Benefits of Connection

Loneliness and isolation don’t just affect our emotional well-being; they have profound impacts on our physical health too. Dr. Vivek Murthy, former U.S. Surgeon General, has called loneliness a public health crisis. He has pointed out that the health risks of prolonged loneliness are comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

“Loneliness is more than just a bad feeling—it’s a real threat to our health and well-being.”
– Dr. Vivek Murthy

Research by Julianne Holt-Lunstad, a leading researcher on social connections and health, has confirmed this. Her studies have shown that loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of early death by as much as 50%, making it as dangerous as obesity and smoking. The data is clear: human connection isn’t just a “nice to have”—it’s a necessity for living a long, healthy life.

“Loneliness and social isolation are risk factors for early mortality, comparable to obesity and smoking.”
– Julianne Holt-Lunstad

At Crossroads, our weekly in-person gatherings are more than just meetings—they are lifelines. By coming together regularly, we combat the harmful effects of isolation and foster a sense of community that strengthens not just our emotional health, but our physical health as well.

Face-to-Face Connection

In her book The Village Effect, Susan Pinker highlights the importance of face-to-face contact. Pinker’s research has shown that people who engage in regular, in-person interaction live longer, healthier lives than those who rely solely on digital communication. While social media and online communication can provide a sense of connection, nothing compares to the benefits of being physically present with others.

“People with the most face-to-face contact with others live longer, healthier lives.”
– Susan Pinker

Crossroads is built on this principle. While we recognize the convenience of digital communication, we prioritize face-to-face meetings because we know that real, human connection happens when people are physically present with one another. Our weekly gatherings provide the space for that kind of deep, meaningful interaction that can’t be replicated online.

The Loneliness Epidemic

The rise of loneliness has been so significant in recent years that it’s often referred to as an epidemic. According to a 2020 study by Cigna, 61% of Americans reported feeling lonely. This number has been steadily increasing as societal structures shift and more people live alone, work remotely, or rely on digital communication for social interaction.

In his book Lost Connections, Johann Hari explores the root causes of this epidemic. He argues that disconnection from meaningful relationships and work is one of the major drivers of the mental health crisis we’re seeing today. Hari’s insights remind us that it’s not just the quantity of our connections that matters, but the quality.

“Loneliness isn’t the physical absence of people—it’s the feeling that you’re not sharing anything that matters with anyone else.”
– Johann Hari

At Crossroads, we aim to create meaningful connections that go beyond surface-level interactions. This is a space where you can share what truly matters to you—your dreams, your struggles, your hopes—and receive genuine support from people who care.

Data on Connection and Health

Here are some key data points that highlight the importance of connection:

  • Loneliness is widespread: According to a 2020 study by Cigna, 61% of Americans reported feeling lonely. This reflects a growing issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds.

  • Connection improves survival rates: A 2015 meta-analysis by Julianne Holt-Lunstad found that individuals with strong social ties had a 50% increased likelihood of survival compared to those with weaker connections.

  • The Blue Zones Effect: Research on the world’s “Blue Zones” (regions where people live significantly longer than average) consistently shows that strong social connections and community involvement are key factors in longevity.

  • CNN Article: A loneliness epidemic is spreading worldwide. Seoul is spending $327 million to stop it

How Crossroads Addresses These Issues

At Crossroads, we take the lessons from these experts and apply them directly to our mission. Our weekly in-person meetings are designed to create meaningful, face-to-face interactions that combat loneliness and foster connection. Every person who joins our group becomes part of a supportive community where dreams are shared, ideas are brainstormed, and actions are taken.

By coming together, we’re not just helping each other achieve our goals—we’re healing the isolation that has become so prevalent in today’s world. Crossroads is more than just a group—it’s a place where connection, community, and action come together to improve both our mental and physical well-being.

Human beings are wired for connection, and when we come together, incredible things happen. Whether it’s achieving personal dreams, overcoming challenges, or simply finding a place where you belong, Crossroads is here to provide the connection that so many of us are missing.