In this powerful first episode of a three-part series, we tackle an epidemic often ignored: loneliness. Despite being more "connected" than ever, data shows we are, in fact, getting lonelier.
Dr. Ben Rein, a Stanford-trained neuroscientist, joins us to unpack the science behind this modern crisis, sharing the personal, transformative nightmare that led him to study the neuroscience of social behavior. Loneliness is more than just an emotion; it's an urgent biological signal from your brain, as real as hunger or thirst.
Listen to understand:
● The critical difference between isolation (the objective state of being alone) and loneliness (the subjective feeling, which you can experience even in a crowd).
● Why being isolated increases your risk of death by any cause by anywhere between 32% to 50%.
● How chronic isolation triggers a stress response, driving inflammation that sets your body up for failure against challenges like heart attacks and strokes.
● The surprising evidence that interaction is like a "full body workout" for the brain, increasing gray matter, which serves as a cognitive reserve against dementia and memory decline.
This is a vital conversation that will change how you view your relationships and your health.
📘 Dr. Ben Rein’s new book, Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Social Connection, is available now: https://amzn.to/46ZLFv6
🎙️ Want to be a guest on the podcast?: https://medstorymedia.com/podcast
📚 Access free tools and downloads: https://medstorymedia.com/resources
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the individuals speaking and do not represent the views of their employers. This episode is for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any personal medical concerns.
Music Credits: Music for this episode comes from Blue Dot Sessions and the Descript Audio Library.
Production Note: The MedStory Podcast is made possible by MedStory Studios and listeners like you.