Colloquially, you can think of fundamental values or virtues. So, community might be one of your values, which translates to specific needs, like a sense of belonging or acceptance. Similarly, if being alive is important to you, then food and water will be among your list of needs.

On the other hand, you might have a desire to chew your nails, which would briefly relieve your anxiety but cause other long-term problems. You weigh these facts and decide not to fulfill your desire to chew your nails.

You cannot reasonably opt-out of having friends, however, if community is important to you; hence, that is a need.