In this insightful episode of DoubleHelix, host Mark Marrott recaps a previous episode on loneliness. He dives deep into the science and practical strategies for overcoming loneliness—a public health crisis as impactful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Drawing on expert interviews and real-life stories, Mark unpacks the concept of "social prescribing," explores the surprising benefits of strategic volunteering, and reveals how reconnecting with joy or awe can transform our well-being. With actionable steps and evidence-based insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to strengthen their social health and find deeper connection in a hyper-connected world.
Referenced links:
-- Jules Hotz - The Connection Cure - https://www.amazon.com/Connection-Cure-Prescriptive-Movement-Belonging/dp/1668030330 AND https://www.socialprescribing.co/
-- Social Connection Advisor (Dr. Vivek Murthy) - https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/connection/index.html
-- Social Relationships and Mortality Risk - https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pmed.1000316
-- 9 Benefits of Volunteering - https://www.opportunityvillage.org/blog/get-involved/health-benefits-of-volunteering
-- Loneliness and Your Health - https://www.columbiadoctors.org/health-library/article/loneliness-your-health/
-- The Science of Everyday Wonder (Book) - https://www.amazon.com/Awe-Science-Everyday-Wonder-Transform/dp/1984879685
Timestamps: 00:00-02:00 — Introduction and overview of the loneliness epidemic
02:00-06:00 — The science behind loneliness and its health impacts (Dr. Vivek Murthy’s research)
06:00-12:00 — Social prescribing: what it is, how it works, and its benefits
12:00-18:00 — Volunteering strategically: case studies and health benefits
18:00-23:00 — Reconnecting with joy or awe: the power of awe and childhood passions
23:00-25:00 — Summary, call to action, and how to try these strategies yourself
