A 2019 study looked at the relationship between a person's friendships and connections, social support and the risk of dying from a major life-ending disease.
The researchers found that while there was no association between disease mortality and social support, participants who had better social integration, that is friendships and connections, were less likely to die of cardiovascular, chronic lower respiratory or nonvascular diseases. Overall, those with more friendships and connections were less likely to die of "all causes."
We are created for connection—to be in relationship with one another. Ultimately, that connection helps us live fuller and healthier lives.