The Society Connectedness & Health Lab
Harnessing the power of social connection for better health around the world.
Welcome to the SOCAH Lab.
We're Creating Spaces for Real People To Come Together.
Welcome to the SOCAH Lab.
We're Creating Spaces for Real People To Come Together.
The Society, Connectedness, and Health (SOCAH) Lab at Yale School of Public Health is dedicated to advancing research and practice on the social and structural drivers of population health. We primarily focus on the mechanisms through which social connectedness and spirituality operate at the neighborhood and individual levels to influence mental health, substance use, HIV, and other health and development outcomes.
Welcome to
the SOCAH Lab.
We're Creating Spaces for Real People To ComeTogether.
The SOCAH Lab aims to develop actionable solutions that advance health equity by examining the intricate relationships between society and health. Our work contributes to the broader mission of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department at Yale, which conducts innovative research on factors influencing all states of well-being, health and disease. We are creating community through education and raising awareness.
Our Approach
At SOCAH, we believe that understanding the dynamics of social relationships and spirituality is key to improving public health. We utilize multiple research methods such as geospatial analyses, analysis of complex probability surveys, longitudinal, multilevel, and structural equation modeling, qualitative interviews, and community-centered insights to ground our work. We incorporate a socioecological framework (e.g., focus on neighborhood environments and personal networks) to identify effective strategies that increase the likelihood of advancing a healthier and equitable society.
Why Our Work Matters
50%
People with strong social ties have a 50% greater chance of survival compared to those without these connections.
1 in 5
1 in 5 adults (23%) live with a mental illness in the United States.
20%
20% of the population, report frequently feeling lonely, even in the presence of others.
31%
Socially isolated adults are 31% more likely to die prematurely compared to those with stronger social ties.
True health begins with social connection. By understanding the power of social bonds, we can create healthier communities for all.
How We Are Contributing to Change
Collaborative Research
Partnering with individuals in academia, government, corporate faith-based institutions, and community and not-for-profit organizations to conduct impactful studies, implement, and evaluate interventions.
Public Health Consulting
Providing expert insights on how to leverage and modify the social drivers of health to advance health and socioeconomic equity.
Education & Workshops
We offer training, workshops, and guest lectures on research design and the social determinants of health, along with keynotes on social connectedness and spirituality in health.
Policy Development
Informing public health policies with evidence-based research and expert testimony.
Our Founder
Dr. Yusuf Ransome MPH, DrPH
Yusuf Ransome is an Associate Professor in the Social and Behavioral Science Department at Yale School of Public Health. He earned his doctorate in public health from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. He completed an Alonzo Smythe Yerby postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Dr. Ransome provides research, consulting services, and products to empower underserved communities domestically and globally to access holistic well-being and long-term prosperity. His work is:
“Guided by Spirit, Rooted in Lived Experience, and Supported by Science.”
We're Committed To Building Communities
Our Mission
The SOCAH Lab is committed to advancing research and practice on the social and structural drivers of population health, with a focus on how connectedness and spirituality influence well-being and health outcomes.
Our Vision
We envision a world where actionable research informs equitable health solutions and where community, connection, and culture are central to public health progress.
Our Goal
Our goal is to generate impactful insights that bridge research and practice, guiding strategies that promote mental health, reduce disparities, and strengthen community resilience.
Dive Into Our Digital Library
With expertise spanning behavioral sciences, social epidemiology, public health entrepreneurship, and health equity, we are committed to driving positive change through collaboration and evidence-based insights. Check out our blog for the latest articles and insights from our team.
Stay Connected
Stay connected with the latest insights, research highlights, and updates from the SOCAH Lab, delivered straight to your inbox.
Newsletter
Join us for interactive workshops, lectures, and community gatherings that bring our research to life and foster real-world impact.
In-Person Events
Join one of our research studies to help us explore how social connection, spirituality, and community shape health and well-being.
Research Studies
Join Our Social Community
Follow us on social media to stay connected with our latest research, community events, and stories that explore how society, culture, and connection shape health outcomes. Join the conversation and be part of a growing community committed to advancing health equity.
Location
Laboratory of Epidemiology and Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, CT 06510
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