Reconnect With an Old Friend

Quick Win

Keeping up with pals — even if it’s been a while — is good for your health, and technology makes it easy. Reach out today.

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Try This Today

1. Spin your mental Rolodex. Think about a close friend or relative you’ve lost touch with — someone who is important to you and brings a smile to your face.
   
2. Send a missive. Take a minute to write a short text or email. Keep it light and positive. You could start the message with “Remember the time when…” and mention a happy memory, or just let the person know you’d love to connect.
   
3. Stay tuned. After you’ve sent your message, be ready to answer the reply.

Why

We all fall out of touch with people we care about, but it’s never too late to reconnect — and it’s worth it. Maintaining social connections can help you avoid loneliness and isolation, which have been linked to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia and premature death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And if you’re concerned your outreach won’t be appreciated, don’t be! Senders of “surprise” texts and calls tend to underestimate how much people appreciate receiving them, according to a 2023 report in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.