The top thing that keeps us happier and healthier, according to a psychologist, and three simple ways to start implementing it.

When I discuss the significance of healthy relationships with a stressed-out patient in my office, they usually comprehend the concept. Of course, they do! They're intelligent and want to please me. They nod and smile.

Though it can be difficult to establish and maintain healthy relationships, it requires dedication, effort, and patience.

Healthy relationships are vital for individuals to thrive as they increase feelings of well-being and decrease anxiety. Studies demonstrate that social support, which refers to encouragement from individuals, groups, and communities, is critical for mental and physical health, as well as resilience to stress.

According to Robert Waldinger, director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, the most significant takeaway from the 75-year research is that strong relationships contribute to our overall happiness and well-being.

Here are three simple and actionable strategies to combat loneliness, build connections, and cultivate healthy relationships, which can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.

1. Create micro-moments of connection

When feeling lonely, we may fear rejection and struggle to connect, so it's best to start with small steps.

Positivity resonance can occur between two or more people, even strangers, when they connect over a shared positive emotion, regardless of its intensity.

For example:

• Greeting colleagues with a smile and a "Good morning"
• Having a two-minute conversation with a co-worker who shares your love of soccer
• Making eye contact and smiling as you walk past someone on the street
• Complimenting a stranger on their adorable puppy

In this post-COVID world, many of my clients no longer visit the office daily. However, an in-person appearance once a week can greatly enhance manifestation.

By fostering a stronger sense of belonging at work, these instances of warmth can help you establish alliances and raise your stock for possible promotions and important projects.

2. Encourage others

The phrase "Jiāyóu 加油" in Chinese means "add oil" and is used to cheer someone on. I have been fond of this idea since the moment I first heard it.

The act of fist-pumping and showing support with enthusiasm is a way to express solidarity and confidence in someone's abilities, even in difficult times.

My version of it? "You got this!"

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What could be more comforting during a challenging marathon mile or a tough workday than having someone cheer you on, share your struggles, and remind you that you're not alone?

Helping others through their struggles with encouraging words and actions can decrease your anxiety and energize both of you.

3. Offer your help

Helping others in practical ways can bring benefits to all parties involved, as described by Dr. Larry Dossey in his concept of the "helper's high," which is a feeling of elation, exhilaration, and increased energy that follows selfless service to others.

Small acts of kindness can improve your mental and physical health, reduce stress, boost self-esteem, increase happiness and satisfaction, lower blood pressure, and increase lifespan.

Small actions that I call 'Everyday Energizers' can provide you with a burst of feel-good energy in just a minute.

You could open the door for someone, hold the elevator for someone, or simply say please or thank you in daily interactions. If you have more time, you could volunteer at a local library, animal shelter, or assist someone moving, or participate in a charity walk or run. You may also meet like-minded individuals.

Use your strengths, skills, and expertise to help others, but be mindful of your time and energy to avoid burnout.

Dr. Mary E. Anderson is a licensed psychologist and renowned speaker with over a decade of experience in helping patients achieve happiness, health, and sustainable success. She holds a PhD in clinical psychology with a specialty in health psychology from the University of Florida and completed her internship and post-doctoral fellowship at the VA Boston Healthcare System, with appointments at Harvard Medical School and Boston University School of Medicine. Dr. Anderson is the author of "The Happy High Achiever."

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Rewritten: The book "The Happy High Achiever" by Mary E. Anderson provides eight essential strategies for overcoming anxiety, managing stress, and energizing oneself for success without sacrificing one's edge.