Jakarta, ThedailyID — Sharing meals with family, friends, or loved ones does more than satisfy hunger. Health experts say eating together can strengthen relationships, improve emotional well-being, and support better mental health.
Researchers describe the practice as commensality, which refers to eating and drinking together at the same table. Studies suggest that people who regularly share meals often experience stronger social connections and greater emotional well-being.
While eating alone can encourage independence and self-confidence, experts say making time to share meals with others, even once a week, can provide meaningful psychological benefits.
Here are four ways shared meals can support mental health:
1. They reduce feelings of loneliness
Trauma therapist and licensed marriage and family therapist Chloe Bean said sharing a meal creates a natural setting for social interaction. Research also shows that people who eat with others tend to report higher happiness levels and lower stress.
Among older adults, regular shared meals may reduce social isolation and improve overall quality of life.
2. They strengthen relationships
Meals provide an easy opportunity to build stronger connections with family and friends. Psychotherapist Pam Skop said casual conversations over food help people feel heard, valued, and emotionally connected.
Even simple discussions about daily activities or favorite dishes can deepen relationships over time.
3. They improve communication skills
The dining table also offers a practical space to develop healthy communication habits. People naturally practice listening, taking turns speaking, asking questions, and expressing opinions during shared meals.
Experts say these moments also help people set healthy boundaries. For example, they may politely decline extra food or ask everyone to put away their phones during the meal.
4. They improve mood
According to Bean, the emotional benefits come from both the food and the social connection. Feeling safe and comfortable while eating with others helps the nervous system relax and shift into the body’s “rest and digest” state.
At the same time, the brain releases chemicals linked to positive emotions. Food stimulates dopamine, while social interaction increases oxytocin and endorphins, hormones associated with trust, bonding, and happiness.
Experts say regularly sharing meals can become a simple but effective habit for improving emotional health and strengthening relationships.
