U.S. Surgeon General: Investing in Relationships, Service, and Purpose Brings Joy

The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, has identified a powerful source of joy that transcends financial gains: investing in relationships, service, and purpose. In his recent Parting Prescription for America, Murthy emphasized the importance of these three elements in fostering a sense of community and well-being. By focusing on these aspects, individuals can cultivate health, happiness, and fulfillment, ultimately leading to a more joyful and connected society.



Relationships are the cornerstone of human connection and a vital source of joy. They provide support, understanding, and a sense of belonging. According to Murthy, investing in healthy relationships can buffer stress and contribute to overall well-being. A study published in the journal PLOS Medicine found that social isolation increases the risk of heart disease, dementia, depression, anxiety, and premature death (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2015). By prioritizing relationships, individuals can mitigate these risks and enhance their overall happiness.

Service, or actions that benefit others, is another powerful source of joy. Engaging in service not only helps others but also provides personal benefits. A study published in the journal Health Psychology found that sustained service efforts can reduce the risk of hypertension, stroke, early death, depression, cognitive decline, and increase feelings of connection to others (Post, 2003). By investing in service, individuals can improve their physical and mental health while fostering a sense of purpose and community.

Purpose, the feeling of having an overarching life aim that guides and prioritizes decisions and actions, is the final element in Murthy's prescription for joy. A study published in the journal Psychological Science found that a high sense of individual purpose may reduce the risk of early death, stroke, lung disease, and dementia, as well as lower levels of depression and anxiety (Ryff et al., 2016). By cultivating a strong sense of purpose, individuals can enhance their resilience and overall well-being.

In conclusion, investing in relationships, service, and purpose is a powerful source of joy that transcends financial gains. By prioritizing these elements, individuals can cultivate health, happiness, and fulfillment, ultimately leading to a more joyful and connected society. As Dr. Vivek Murthy, the U.S. Surgeon General, has emphasized, choosing community over division, love over fear, and recognizing the irreplaceable foundation of well-being is essential for a prosperous and joyful future.

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References:

Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2015). Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review. PLOS Medicine, 12(1), e1001733.

Post, S. G. (2003). Altruism, happiness, and health: It's good to be good. International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 10(2), 117-130.

Ryff, C. D., Singer, B. H., & Love, G. D. (2016). Purpose in life as a predictor of mortality across adulthood. Psychological Science, 27(11), 1527-1535.