Mind and Resilience: Happiness is Your Health Superpower
This isn't just a motivational concept: it's about the fundamental biology of how well you age. Our research highlights the incredible biological power of connection and mindset. Loneliness is as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and individuals with more negative perceptions of ageing are significantly more likely to experience cognitive and physical decline.
Simple actions build resilience. Learn how a gratitude journal, prioritizing time with people who uplift you, and being mindful can reduce stress and protect your health. Reaching out to a friend once a week is a critical investment in your future.
Watch the Mental Wellbeing Series: In this series, presenter Shannon Keenan chats with Senior TILDA Researchers Dr. Christine McGarrigle and Dr. Mark Ward. They break down the science of optimism, loneliness, and long-term health into simple strategies you can use today.
Video 1: Mindset Matters: The Biology of Thinking Better
In this video, Shannon and Christine explore how our internal thoughts and feelings about the ageing process can actually influence your physical outcomes.
McGarrigle, C.A., Ward, M. and Kenny, R.A., 2022. Negative aging perceptions and cognitive and functional decline: Are you as old as you feel? Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 70(3), pp.777-788.
Orlandini, L., Patrizio, E., O’Halloran, A.M., et al. (2024). Social Vulnerability, Frailty and Self-Perceived Health: Findings from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA). Journal of Frailty & Aging, 13(1), 50–56.
Video 2: Social Health: Loneliness is More Dangerous Than You Think
Explore the powerful biological impact of connection. This video reveals the stunning fact that your relationships are a literal health defense mechanism.
Ward, M., May, P., Normand, C., et al. (2021). Mortality risk associated with combinations of loneliness and social isolation: Findings from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA). Age and Ageing, 50(4), 1329–1335.
Domènech-Abella, J., Mundó, J., Haro, J.M., et al. (2019). The role of loneliness, social networks, and social support in the risk of mental disorders: A longitudinal study in the general population in Ireland. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 54(11), 1345–1354.
Burns, A., Leavey, G., Ward, M., & O’Sullivan, R. (2022). The impact of loneliness on healthcare use in older people: evidence from a nationally representative cohort. Journal of Public Health: From Theory to Practice, 30, 675–684.
Video 3: Happiness Is Your Health Intervention
Your happiness today shapes your health tomorrow. This video shows you how pursuing joy and reducing stress protects your body at a cellular level.
McHugh Power, J., Tang, J., Kenny, R.A., et al. (2020). Mediating the relationship between loneliness and cognitive function: the role of depressive and anxiety symptoms. Aging & mental health, 24(7), pp.1071-1078.
Orlandini, L., et al. (2024). Social vulnerability and self-rated health in older adults. Journal of Frailty & Aging, 13(1), 50–56.