Top Story: Can love improve your health? It may depend on the type of love you're experiencing
Dr. Kaz Nelson in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences spoke to WCCO-TV about the mental health impacts of love as part of a Valentine’s Day story. "When people are socially supported, valued, connected and respected by others, this results in the sense of belonging and security, and this can actually reduce the impact of stress," said Dr. Nelson. Love releases several hormones in the brain, like dopamine which causes euphoria. Others, like oxytocin and vasopressin, lead to calmness, security and attachment, which can be vital in maintaining long-term relationships.
New love releases the hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine, which contributes to someone’s happiness. Additionally, love produces oxytocin, which is responsible for lowering someone’s blood pressure across their lifespan. Indulging in love not only improves the health of the heart, but also our mental health. There are also reports that show people who are married live longer.
"[Love is] one of the core pleasurable activities that humans can engage in," said Dr. Nelson.