Promise2Live hosted a Silicon Slopes town hall addressing the loneliness epidemic, highlighting research on social isolation, personal stories from experts, and actionable strategies to foster human connection, improve mental health, and strengthen communities in a tech-driven world.
Lehi, UT — March 5, 2026
On February 19, leaders in Utah’s tech and business communities gathered at Silicon Slopes headquarters for a town hall hosted by Promise2Live, focusing on the rising epidemic of loneliness and the critical role of human connection.
Despite unprecedented access to digital communication, research shows Americans are feeling increasingly isolated. Chronic loneliness has been linked to serious health risks, including heart disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death.
According to the 2023 U.S. Surgeon General’s advisory, prolonged social isolation can have health effects comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day, increasing risks for premature death, heart disease, stroke, anxiety, depression, and dementia.
We framed the discussion at the February Silicon Slopes town hall around not only personal wellbeing but also the societal impact of a population disconnected from community.
Leading with Research and Experience
Keynote speaker Julianne Holt-Lunstad, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University, is recognized internationally for her research on loneliness and social connection. Her work, including serving as lead scientific editor for the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory, has demonstrated that socially connected individuals have a 50% higher chance of survival from all causes of death, independent of age or initial health status.
Dr. Holt-Lunstad emphasized that social relationships are not a luxury—they are a biological necessity. Using the analogy of ecological balance in Yellowstone National Park, she illustrated how individual participation in a social network sustains both personal and communal health. “Prioritize spending time with others, even briefly,” she said. “Healthy relationships are essential to your survival and wellbeing.”
Stories That Resonate
Dr. David Morgan, a licensed psychologist and director of mental health initiatives at Silicon Slopes, shared a personal story from his college years. Feeling intensely isolated in a new environment, he broke down on the steps of a campus building, only to be comforted by a passing professor. That small act of attentiveness left a lasting impression, highlighting how even brief gestures of human connection can have profound effects.
James Brown, founder of Living with Pride, addressed loneliness from the perspective of aging and identity. At 80, Brown warned that senior citizens are often overlooked, despite high suicide rates in the 85+ demographic. “If we promise to live together, with age and with pride, we’ll improve not only our communities but our own lives,” he said, urging the audience to actively engage with elders through conversation, socialization, and mentorship.
And I presented the Promise2Live framework for combatting loneliness, including initiatives such as Unplug and Hug and emphasized the power of small, intentional actions and the importance of fostering communities where individuals can safely reach out for help.
Connection as a Lifeline
Throughout the town hall, our speakers underscored a paradox of the modern age: while technology can connect, it cannot replace the physiological and psychological benefits of face-to-face relationships. Research shared at the event reinforced that approximately 55% of an individual’s overall health is influenced by social determinants, including the quality and frequency of human interaction.
Attendees were encouraged to make tangible commitments toward connection—both in their personal lives and within their organizations. Studies show that individuals who consciously promise to seek help or offer support are up to 60% more likely to follow through when facing mental health challenges.
Looking Ahead
Promise2Live aims to continue spreading awareness and actionable strategies through events across the U.S. Upcoming initiatives include the 1 Million Hugs for Hope Gala on May 30 and an annual global livestream in Hollywood on September 10.
The Silicon Slopes town hall offered more than statistics and research; it provided a platform for practical guidance, personal stories, and evidence-based strategies to combat loneliness. For a community increasingly tethered to screens and digital interaction, the message was clear: investing in real-world connections is not optional—it is essential.
To learn more, visit Promise2Live.org.
Editor's Note: TechBuzz welcomes again frequent guest-author Brandy Vega, a dynamic entrepreneur, media guru, mother, philanthropist, and ardent mental health advocate. Among other things, she’s the founder of Promise2Live, the force behind a viral movement to empower individuals to make a promise, whether or not they are struggling, that if they EVER feel sad, depressed, hopeless or suicidal that they will reach out to a friend, family member, a trusted resources or call or text 988! Once they promise, they’re asked to share it. By sharing on social media, we can stop the stigma, start conversations and save lives.