Getting social is the key to a healthy life
POSTED September 13, 2009 - 14:45 | POSTED BY Jaspreet Kaur
Last edited by Sham Kamboj on September 13, 2009 - 15:29
The quality of social life a person leads does have a very significant effect on his/her health. This parameter is even more important than diet and exercise in determining our well-being.
More and more studies are being conducted in this regard and there is increasing proof to substantiate the fact that membership of a social group can substantially decrease the possibility of conditions such as stroke, dementia and even the common cold.
Memberships of social groups improve physical and mental health
The latest study findings have been authenticated by the Universities of Exeter and Queensland, Australia. They conducted the new study by relying on a review study of some previous research. The combined results of both the studies show that group membership is associated with physical and mental health.
Alex Haslam, professor at the University of Exeter, was quoted as saying, “We are social animals who live and have evolved to live in social groups. Membership of groups, from football teams to book clubs and voluntary societies, gives us a sense of social identity.”
He further added, “This is an indispensable part of who we are and what we need to be in order to lead rich and fulfilling lives. For this reason groups are central to mental functioning, health and well-being.”
Previous related studies
If we have a look at some of the studies in the past, the present study results look all the more convincing.
A study of stroke sufferers conducted in 2008 revealed that if you are able to sustain valued group memberships, then you are more likely to overcome cognitive problems such as difficulty with memory and language.
According to the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, people who stay alone have two times higher possibility of getting affected by a heart disease, including heart attack and sudden cardiac death. This is in comparison to those people who go out and socialise with friends and close relatives.
Therefore, stepping out of the house, meeting old friends and making new ones is very good for the heart. It can be even life-saving.
The current study findings appear in the Scientific American Mind.
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