Socialising f2f important to keep depression at bay

A study led by Alan Teo has revealed that face-to-face (f2f) socialising is more powerful compared to phone calls and emails in guarding against depression. Alan noted that all forms of socialisation were not equal. Phone calls and digital communication (email, SMS, Whatsapp, etc.) , with friends or family members, do not have the same power as face-to-face interactions in keeping away depression.

Alan Teo’s research team assessed more than 11,000 adults aged 50 and older. They examined the frequency of in-person, telephone and written social contact, including email.

Two years later they found that having little face-to-face social contact nearly doubles your risk of having depression.

Participants, who met up with family and friends at least three times a week, had the lowest level of depressive symptoms than those who had less frequent interaction.

Individuals who met just once every few months or less had an 11.5% chance of getting exhibiting signs of depression.

Written by: Dr. Ajay Sati.