Just like we all have physical and mental health, every person also has social health. This doesn’t just apply to people who feel lonely: all of us move through phases of healthier and less healthy social relationships over our lives. Social health refers to having a suitable quantity and quality of relationships that meet our individual need for meaningful human connection (adapted from Doyle & Link, 2024).

Fortunately, clinical psychology offers evidence-based techniques to build strong relationships and reduce loneliness. Interestingly, the most effective interventions aren’t those that simply create new contacts—but those that help people improve their ability to connect. Techniques such as cognitive restructuring, social skills training, and psychoeducation help individuals build new friendships, deepen existing ones, and feel less lonely. Digital tools can guide users through these methods and support meaningful change in their real-world relationships.