As US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy approaches the end of his second term, he leaves behind a legacy of addressing some of the most pressing health issues of our time. His final reflections, encapsulated in an essay published on Tuesday, offer a poignant diagnosis of America's current state of health and a hopeful prescription for the future. Murthy suggests that a profound lack of connectivity lies at the heart of the nation's malaise, leading to widespread pain and unhappiness. His "parting prescription" for the American people is a call to cultivate a strong sense of community, emphasizing that this is not just a social nicety but a fundamental necessity for health and well-being.

The Importance of Community

Murthy posits that community is a powerful source of life satisfaction and life expectancy. It is within communities that we form relationships, offer mutual support, and find purpose in contributing to each other's lives. He argues that building community is essential for fulfillment and identifies three key elements that make this possible: connection with others through relationships, acts of service to help others, and a sense of purpose in life. These elements, pursued through love rather than fear or hate, stand in stark contrast to the modern-day triad of success—wealth, fame, and power—which often focus on the individual rather than the collective.

The Triad of Fulfillment vs. The Triad of Success

Murthy differentiates between what he terms the "triad of fulfillment" and the "triad of success." The triad of fulfillment, consisting of relationships, service, and purpose, connects us with something larger than ourselves, offering meaning and a sense of belonging. In contrast, the triad of success, while it may earn us praise and possessions, does not necessarily provide the deeper sense of meaning and connection that fulfillment brings. Murthy's emphasis on fulfillment over success reflects a broader shift in understanding what truly constitutes a healthy and happy life.

The Impact of Social Media and Modern Culture

In his essay, Murthy also addresses the role of social media in exacerbating feelings of loneliness and dissatisfaction. He notes that social media has created a culture of constant comparison, which often undermines our self-worth and leaves us feeling dissatisfied with our lives. This culture of comparison, he suggests, is a significant barrier to building the kind of community that fosters health and well-being. Instead of seeking validation and accolades, Murthy encourages individuals to focus on building meaningful relationships and finding purpose through service to others.

The Evidence for Social Connectivity

Although Murthy's essay is not a scientific report, it cites numerous studies that support the idea that social connectivity has a profound impact on both physical and mental health. He points out that being socially disconnected increases the risk of heart disease, dementia, depression, anxiety, and premature death. Alarmingly, about a third of adults and half of young people experience loneliness, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.

The Role of Individual Purpose

Murthy also emphasizes the importance of individual purpose, particularly when it is anchored in helping others. He cites research showing that a strong sense of purpose can reduce the risk of early death and various diseases, as well as lower levels of depression and anxiety. This sense of purpose, he suggests, is a critical component of building a healthy community and finding fulfillment in life.

The Challenge of Divisiveness

Murthy acknowledges that divisiveness has been eroding America's well-being for some time, long before the Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated feelings of loneliness and isolation. He notes that this divisiveness fuels not only individual illness and despair but also societal pessimism and distrust, making it difficult for the nation to come together to address common challenges. In this context, his call to choose community is not just a personal recommendation but a societal imperative.

Looking Forward

As Murthy concludes his tenure as Surgeon General, his parting prescription is a call to action for all Americans. He urges individuals to choose community, to build relationships, to serve others, and to find purpose in life. This prescription is not just about improving individual health but about strengthening the fabric of society as a whole. By choosing community, Murthy believes that Americans can overcome the challenges of loneliness, divisiveness, and dissatisfaction, and move towards a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling future.

In the face of the nomination of Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, a New York family physician and Fox News medical contributor, as Trump’s pick to replace Murthy, and the potential challenges posed by figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist, Murthy's message takes on even greater importance. As the nation navigates these transitions and challenges, the call to cultivate community and prioritize fulfillment over success remains a critical guidepost for the health and well-being of the American people.