Health – Evidence that good social interactions promotes good health




There is scientific evidence to show that social behaviour directly impact one’s health. In a study by Gouin et al (published in 2009; see this link for details: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2888874/ ), it was shown that positive communication behaviours led to high level of the hormone, oxytocin and persons who had higher levels of oxytocin had faster wound healing. Wikipedia.org (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxytocin#cite_note-pmid17170309-72) states, ‘increased release in oxytocin following positive social interactions has the potential to increase wound healing.’

Another study by Kiecolt-Glaser et al (published in 2005, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16330726)  found out that among the couples who took part in the study, ‘couples’ blister wounds healed more slowly … following marital conflicts than after social support interactions.’ There were also changes in the production of cytokines implicated in wound and wound healing.

Gouin et al published a report titled, ‘The influence of anger expression on wound healing’ in 2008 (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18078737). The study showed that ‘individuals exhibiting lower levels of anger control were more likely to be categorized as slow healers.’ It was noted that participants with poor anger control had higher level of cortisol which led to a longer time for wound healing. It concluded that the ability to regulate the expression of anger has an impact on wound healing.

What can we learn from these reports? We've long known that a good state of mind and healthy lifestyles contribute to one’s well-being and health. Here we see more evidence that our state of mind, the ability to control one’s emotions and having good social interactions bud well for our health. When we have a friend or relative who is sick, just being there and providing emotional support helps the sick one to recover better. There are times we have a loved one who is ill and we have nothing else we can do to help, that can be frustrating. But, remember that social and emotional support helps the body of the sick one to release chemicals that help in healing. Having a positive disposition and keeping calm in the light of annoying and provocative situations can go a long way to help. Individuals who have a lot of social support get better when they sick than those who don’t. While there are a whole lot of other things that affect our health and well-being  it’s reassuring to know that little things count. Share a good laugh with those around you. Stay positive, be hopeful and maintain your calm. Let your loved ones know that you are there for them always, in good times and bad. Money can’t buy everything; you don’t need money for everything. If health is wealth as the saying goes, then a loving, warm and supportive relationship, which evidently promotes good health, is worth a lot.


©Dr Eugene’s Column (http://dreugeneojirigho.blogspot.com/)
©Dr Eugene’s Blogs (http://dreugeneoji.blogspot.com/)

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