Communication is Key: Storytelling for Health

The ability to tell stories and communicate openly has long been a central aspect of a loving family lifestyle. A story passed down from generations can become a family tradition and really serve to bring everyone together during the holidays. Now, the ability to communicate openly and tell stories has been identified as a component of a healthy lifestyle, especially for those with care givers.

Just this year, the New York Times released a report focused on the effect that storytelling can have on both healing and maintaining general health. In the report, it’s stated the recent trial results have been conclusive with tests on the effect of storytelling on patients with high blood pressure. The testing involved over 300 patients with hypertension, who were given tapes of other patients speaking on their own personal health issues and experiences.

According to the New York Times Report nearly all of the patients who received the videos were able to improve their blood pressure on average. Also, those who had extremely high levels of hypertension were able to achieve decreases similar to those expected with regiments of drugs. Doctors have pointed out the importance of the connection between reflection and storytelling, as well as its ability to allow people to truly realize what’s going on with their lives.

Storytelling is a great outlet for patients, especially with those who are in similar situations, as well as care givers and family members. Too often, patients of any kind tend to mistakenly limit communication between themselves and their family members or care givers. In reality, the ability to keep good communication with those who are closest to you on a daily basis will only allow for a better long term recovery.

Everyone can do their part to try and follow through on some of the findings linking storytelling to better health. Here locally, everyone should make a better effort to connect even more with those closes to them on a daily basis. Whether it’s a caregiver who visits Charleston Apartments and homes or a family member who comes to visit on the regular, open lines of communication are vital. At the very least, a greater ability to be open and converse will allow for better relationships and possibly better health.