April 20th, 2026

 
Neuroscientist Ben Rein on why our brains need friends to be at our most healthy
Radio NZ
From Nine To Noon, 10:05 am on 19 March 2026

 
When it comes to living longer there's a lot of promised life-hacks out there. Everything from "eat, sleep and exercise well" to "take cold showers", "try intermittent fasting" or "walk with a weighted backpack".
 
But what if it was simply: "hang out with your friends more"?
 
US-based neuroscientist Ben Rein believes maintaining social connections has an enormous benefit to our brain.
 
It can help improve our health and well-being, and reduce a range of conditions, including heart disease and dementia - as well as depression and anxiety.
 
Ben's PhD research a decade ago was into autism spectrum disorder, and during the pandemic he started doing more science communication - reaching out to a growing audience to explain neuroscience and psychology on social media platforms.
 
Last year he released a book called Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Social Connection.
 
It's a fascinating look at what goes right if we have strong social bonds - and what can go very wrong, if we don't.
 
https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/ninetonoon/audio/2019027573/neuroscientist-ben-rein-on-why-our-brains-need-friends-to-be-at-our-most-healthy
​