Humans living alone typically have lots of other social contact -- at work, shopping, on the phone, social outings. |
It's important to emphasize that this work is not directly relevant to humans. First, rats have a universal drive to run. While some people may feel internally motivated to exercise, most do not and need additional incentives. |
Stress hormones go up in runners and yet, under certain circumstances, these hormones don't affect the brain in a negative way. |
That said, our study adds to the existing literature that positive social interactions can buffer the effects of stress on the body and brain. |
This reinforces the idea that social support helps to lessen the negative consequences of stress. |