Lack of connection with others not only makes us unhappy but it is also bad for the wellbeing of the body and mind, research finds.
A sense of rejection or isolation increases blood pressure, stress levels and general wear and tear as well as increases your chances of developing Alzheimer’s Disease.
It also reduces will power and perseverance, thus affecting the ability to follow a healthy lifestyle, according to scientists.
The findings were outlined by Professor John Cacioppo, of the University of Chicago, at the American Association for the Advancement of Science annual conference.

Listen to interview with leading expert on social connections Professor John Cacioppo

A report released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that chronic diseases are associated with more days off work and/or being out of the workforce, and some of the biggest culprits are depression, arthritis and asthma.

The report, Chronic disease and participation in work, looked at selected chronic diseases to provide an estimate of the loss to the Australian economy due to reduced participation in work among people who have chronic disease.
Report author, Karen Bishop, said, ‘As one might expect, chronic diseases are associated with lower participation in the labour force and more missed days of work.’ [continue reading…]

The BBC Reports how scientists believe a common heart medicine may be able to erase fearful memories from the mind.
The Dutch investigators believe beta-blocker drugs could help people suffering from the emotional after effects of traumatic experiences. They believe the drug alters how memories are recalled after carrying out the study of 60 people, Nature Neuroscience reports. Link to continue reading

Related : Pill to erase bad memories: Ethical furore over drugs ‘that threaten human identity’
Source: BBC