Happy relationships are linked to health and longevity

  Happy relationships are linked to health and longevity

More and more studies are revealing a clear link between the quality of our relationships and our health. Recent studies have shown reduced immunity in couples during particularly acrimonious periods. Studies have also shown a decrease in the chance of cardiovascular disease in mid-life women who are in contented marriages and relationships.

A study out of Harvard known as The Harvard Grant study has followed the lives of a group of more than 700 men over a 75 year period. It is one of the longest studies of it's kind. In recent years the study has expanded to include interviewing the wives and children of these men. 

The conclusion of this research was that the strongest influence on long term health and well being was to be in a strong loving relationship. Interestingly these relationships don't have to be constantly smooth. Dr Waldinger one of the Directors of the study said " Some of our Octogenarian couples could bicker day in and day out. But as long as they felt they could really count on the other when the going gets tough, those arguments don't take a toll on their memories".

After decades of study Dr Waldinger was confident that strong social bonds had a major impact in long-term health and well-being.

When asked what actions he would recommend for people looking to benefit from this study. He responded " Something as simple as replacing screen time with people time, or livening up a stale relationship by doing something new together, long walks or date nights. Reach out to that family member you haven't spoken to in years- because those all-to-common family feuds take a terrible toll on the people that hold the grudges".

Our relationships matter, our connections to others reduce stress and strengthen our immune systems. But it has been clearly shown that connections via technology do not have the same long term benefits on our health. The main benefits are achieved via face to face connection.

Interestingly, at the start of the study most of the young adults interviewed believed long term happiness would be best obtained with wealth, fame and success. This also supports what I see in my practise. All too often couples are focusing their energies outside their relationship rather than on each other. 

I believe this is going to be a growing debate as our society becomes more fractured, diseased and lonely. I believe that we are finally beginning to recognise the limitations and dangers of our current capitalist society. 

Make 2018 the year you decide to limit your mobile usage and increase you face to face contact with family, friends and loved ones. As by doing so you are providing the best foundation for your long term health and happiness. 

If you want to learn more about The Harvard study of Happiness Dr Waldinger recently gave a TED talk titled What makes a good life? this can be found at www.ted.com.