Researchers have known for a long time that poor social skills are associated with mental health problems like depression and anxiety.

A new study authored by Chris Segrin, professor and department head of the University of Arizona Department of Communication, shows that poor social skills were also predictive of poorer physical health.  

“Poor social skills work through higher stress and higher loneliness to degrade our physical health" Segrin said.

Social skills refer to the communication traits that allow people to interact effectively and appropriately with others. According to Segrin, these include “the ability to provide emotional support to other people, the ability to share things about yourself, your ability to say ‘no’ to unreasonable requests and finally going up to other people, approaching them and introducing themselves.”

Respondents who tested low in those areas tended to experience more mental stress and anxiety, which in the long run contributed to poorer physical health.