Why We Crave Togetherness
Medical X Press has a great piece up about the importance of connectivity:
The need to be around people is hard-wired into our brains, researchers say. We crave company in the same way we hunger for food or thirst for water. When that craving isn’t satisfied, the long-term health consequences can be serious.Luckily, the need for togetherness can be met even at a distance. …
Other research has shown serious long-term health consequences from chronic loneliness. “It turns out that being socially connected is associated with approximately a 50% reduction in the risk of early death,” Beckes said. “In effect, it’s similar to the reduction of risk that somebody with coronary heart disease has if they quit smoking.”
A 2016 study in the journal Heart linked loneliness and social isolation to a 32% increased risk of having a stroke or developing coronary artery disease. …
“It’s not being alone,” Hawkley said. “It’s feeling alone”—a mismatch between what you want and what you need.
NOTIFY Communications prides itself on keeping residents connected with caregivers and loved ones. If you know of anyone feeling lonely, we can help. Call us today.
