Embracing Micro-Relationships: The Power of Talking to Strangers

VANCOUVER – Conversations with strangers, even fleeting ones, can significantly enhance mental well-being and foster a sense of community, according to research led by psychology professor Gillian Sandstrom. Reflecting on her own experience as a graduate student in Toronto, Sandstrom recalls initiating what she calls a “tiny, tiny micro-relationship” with a woman running a hotdog stand. This simple exchange of smiles and greetings provided her with a sense of belonging during a period of loneliness.

Now an associate professor at the University of Sussex, Sandstrom emphasizes the importance of these brief interactions. They can weave individuals into the fabric of their community, essential for mental health. Sandstrom is part of a growing movement advocating for increased social interactions among strangers, contrasting earlier societal warnings about potential dangers.

The Toronto-based organization GenWell is at the forefront of this initiative, launching a national campaign called Talk to a Stranger Week, scheduled for November 24-30, 2023. CEO Pete Bombaci states the campaign aims to give people “an excuse” to engage with others, fostering connections that lead to sustainable relationships.

According to a study conducted by GenWell, which surveyed approximately 2,500 participants in 2021, respondents who frequently greeted neighbours and strangers reported higher levels of happiness. The strongest correlation was found among those who engaged in these interactions daily.

The campaign is not just about immediate benefits; it aims to cultivate a culture of connectivity in a society that has become increasingly isolated. Tony Esteves, who hails from Canmore, Alberta, transformed his life through this approach. After experiencing depression in 2016, he set a goal to speak to at least one new person every day. Esteves credits this initiative with saving his life, stating, “It pulled me out of depression, and I can actually say meeting strangers literally saved my life.”

In his first year, Esteves conversed with 550 strangers, forging meaningful connections that included co-hosting a music festival and entering a long-term romantic relationship. “I will forever be grateful for the journey we got to share,” he reflected.

Understanding the Need for Connection

The need for social interaction is increasingly recognized as a public health priority. Ian Culbert, executive director of the Canadian Public Health Association, highlights the significance of these small encounters in combating loneliness. Recent data from Statistics Canada indicates that over 13 percent of Canadians report feeling lonely “always or often,” with 37 percent occasionally feeling lonely.

“Social connectedness has a profound impact on health and well-being,” Culbert stated. He noted that these interactions can reduce feelings of isolation, improve mood, and enhance resilience. Supporting his argument, a 2014 study published in the National Library of Medicine linked social interactions with protective health benefits, regardless of the context.

Culbert also pointed to the negative perceptions surrounding stranger interactions, which have been exacerbated by political rhetoric and societal fears. This atmosphere has made talking to strangers taboo, contributing to the disconnect.

Research by Sandstrom published in 2020 further reinforces these findings, indicating that people often report being happier after engaging with strangers. Despite this, many individuals limit such interactions due to fears of rejection. Her analysis of over 2,300 respondents showed that these brief conversations frequently exceed expectations in terms of the quality of interaction.

Addressing Societal Barriers

Sandstrom describes a phenomenon she calls the “liking gap,” where individuals underestimate how much others appreciate their company. “People actually like us more than we think,” she explained, advocating for overcoming self-doubt in social situations.

Esteves encourages a culture of “micro-bravery,” urging individuals to initiate small acts of connection, like making eye contact or smiling at a stranger. “These little acts build momentum and can lead to transformation,” he said.

In the streets of Vancouver, reactions to this initiative vary. Self-identified extrovert Mack Yong enjoys conversing with others, finding value in the exchange of perspectives. He notes that this openness often heightens when traveling. Conversely, Julia Jacobs highlights a generational divide, suggesting younger individuals may rely more on technology for communication, making them less comfortable with direct interactions.

Bombaci believes the current reliance on technology has exacerbated feelings of disconnection. Sandstrom concurs, acknowledging the need for intentional efforts to foster relationships that many may take for granted.

As society grapples with widespread loneliness, the push to engage with strangers offers not only personal benefits but also an opportunity to contribute positively to the well-being of others. “You’re going to help them feel connected,” Sandstrom concluded. “There are benefits to it, but they’re just a little scared and just need a little nudge, and maybe that’s the nudge for some people.”

This report was first published on September 16, 2025.