According to a recent survey, your social life is not as good as it used to be. And that’s bad for your health.

Research, conducted by Professor Lynn Smith-Lovin of Duke University and published in the American Social Review, shows that Americans today are much more socially isolated than they were 20 years ago.

Nearly a quarter of the 1,500 people surveyed had “zero” close personal friends and over half had no more than one or two. That leaves three quarters of the population without the makings of a good social life. And, if that includes you, it’s not to your benefit.

Numerous studies from all over the world show that a good active social life is absolutely essential to your health and happiness.

According to the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, people who live alone have twice the risk of heart disease, including heart attack and sudden cardiac death. So getting out of the house, contacting old friends and making new ones is actually good for your heart – in more ways than one. And it may even save your life.

A good social life doesn’t mean “let’s party!” It means having a few close friends and confidants you enjoy being with to share ideas, discuss important personal issues and have a few good laughs.

Where do you begin? Invite someone over for a healthy lunch or to go for a walk. Volunteer at your community center or church. Check your local paper for listings of social events related to a hobby or interest. Take a community college course. Start a small direct sales home business that will motivate you to reach out to new people and possibly even make some extra money in the process.

And, no matter where you go, make it a point to be the one to start conversations. Realize you’re not the only one who might feel uncomfortable about meeting new people. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “The only way to have a friend is to be one.” So jump right in and socialize. You’ll find your health and well-being will improve as well as your social life.

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