from Oregon Health & Sciences University
Frequent or habitual use of portable
electronic devices seems to be a
constant in our society. The result is
less talking to each other. That’s why a
study from Oregon Health & Science
University caught my eye. It calls
attention to the mental health benefits of
regular face-to-face interactions,
especially among older adults. Those in
the study who regularly met in person
with family and friends were less likely to
report symptoms of depression,
compared to those who emailed or spoke
on the phone—and those benefits
endured even years. The researchers
say this is the first study to look at what
type of communication with loved ones
and friends safeguards people from
depression. They found that phone calls
and digital communications do not have
the same power as face to face
interactions.