November 17, 2008

Beating Loneliness at Its Own Game

Researchers have found that indulging in feelings of nostalgia curiously combat the sad feelings that accompany loneliness. Christie Nicholson reports

SUBSCRIBE TO 60-Second Mind

Apple | Spotify | RSS

Join Our Community of Science Lovers!

[Below is the original script. But a few changes may have been made during the recording of this audio podcast.]

Remember the last time you sifted through old photographs, daydreamt about bygone days? I don’t know about you, but I’m a sucker for nostalgia.

But does nostalgia make us feel sad and alone?

Well a series of studies published in Psychological Science reveal that sentimental thoughts actually heal loneliness.

Researchers tested more than 1,000 people and found that those who reported loneliness also perceived they had low social support (meaning not many friends, connected family members.) But, they also reported feelings of nostalgia–which then increased their perceived social support. I guess thinking back on times with others, makes one realize that they indeed have had others in their lives.

But in a final study, researchers tested “resilience” in subjects and uncovered a caveat: It is the most resilient of people who recruit nostalgia when they are feeling lonely.

So as we head into the holiday season, try not to wallow in loneliness, dive into memories of old acquaintances instead. Oddly enough, you might just feel better.

—Christie Nicholson

On supporting science journalism

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.

60-Second Psych is a weekly podcast. Subscribe to this Podcast:

RSS | iTunes

It’s Time to Stand Up for Science

If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.

I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.

If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.

In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.

There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.

Thank you,

David M. Ewalt, Editor in Chief, Scientific American