PTC Web Desk: A long-term study by Harvard University has found that the strongest predictor of a happy and healthy life is not wealth, career success, or even good physical health in youth, but the quality of close relationships.

The findings were recently highlighted by California-based gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi in an Instagram video, where he explained the results of one of the world's longest studies on human well-being.

An 88-year study on human happiness

Dr Sethi, who trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford said researchers followed the same group of people for nearly 88 years to understand what truly contributes to happiness, longevity and overall well-being. According to him, the researchers themselves were surprised by the results.

"The strongest predictor of happiness, longer life  and better brain health was the quality of close relationships," Dr Sethi said.

It's about meaningful relationships, not more friends

The study found that having a large social circle is not what makes the biggest difference. Instead, the emotional warmth, trust  and support shared with close family members, partners  and friends play the most important role.

People who reported being satisfied with their relationships at the age of 50 were found to be healthier and more resilient by the time they reached 80.

Good relationships benefit both mind and body

The research also showed that strong personal relationships help slow cognitive decline as people grow older and are linked to a longer life expectancy. In contrast, prolonged loneliness can seriously affect physical health. Dr Sethi noted that chronic loneliness has health effects comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, highlighting the importance of staying emotionally connected.

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While many people focus on building successful careers or increasing their income, the study suggests that investing time in meaningful relationships may have a greater impact on long-term health and happiness.

Dr Sethi encouraged people to reconnect with those they care about and make nurturing close relationships a priority.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for general awareness only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.