Listening to sad songs can actually boost your happiness, according to a study. Dr Nicole Main, psychologist and UK Clinical Lead at Wysa, explains: “Some studies have shown listening to sad music can uplift your mood, possibly by providing a form of catharsis – a way of letting emotions out and allowing you to express yourself – or by making you feel less alone in your feelings.”
Making someone else smile, even a stranger, helps our own wellbeing because it fulfils our psychological need for connection with others. Dr Deborah Lee of Doctor Fox Online Pharmacy says: “Psychologists have found engaging in prosocial behaviour – taking actions designed to help other people – is an effective way of making people feel happier. Just making someone else smile can give you a ‘helper’s high’.”
Visiting a museum or gallery can lower stress hormone cortisol. “Social activities such as visiting museums and galleries or going to a concert have been shown to correlate with better wellbeing, and lower scores of anxiety and depression,” says Dr Main. “They can expose you to new ideas and perspectives and provide an opportunity for relaxation and escape.”
Having a purpose in life is known to improve health and happiness. “Research has shown humans flourish when they have optimal mental and physical health. Rather than just drifting, they need to set and achieve personal goals,” says Dr Lee. Eating fruit and vegetables also boosts happiness, as they support the gut-brain axis and help balance blood sugar levels.
A 2015 study of over 30,000 Americans showed that having sex once a week is optimal for maximising happiness. “Sexual intercourse facilitates bonding between a couple and helps them feel close,” says Dr Lee. “Interestingly a different study showed having sex more often than usual doesn’t increase happiness. Once a week seems to be the optimal amount.”
Chatting to a stranger can also be beneficial. “These conversations can give you a fresh perspective, as you’re interacting with someone who doesn’t have preconceived ideas about you,” advises Dr Main. A study of Turkish bus commuters found that those who engaged in positive interactions with bus drivers reported better moods and life satisfaction.
