Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD

Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD, professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah. Her research focuses on the long-term health effects of social connections and includes a meta-analysis on the effects of loneliness and social isolation on mortality.

It’s Smart to Socialize
Mental Health

It’s Smart to Socialize

Katie Wenger, LCSW | December 1, 2022

If you want to improve your mental performance immediately, socialize. That’s the intriguing finding of a recent study published in…

You Can Be Surrounded by People and Still Be Lonely
Emotional Health

You Can Be Surrounded by People and Still Be Lonely

Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD | April 30, 2018

Loneliness is as big a health threat as obesity, new research finds. But there are ways to overcome it. Here’s how.

Caring Touch Lowers Blood Pressure
Blood Pressure

Caring Touch Lowers Blood Pressure

Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD | February 11, 2016

Nonsexual, caring touch between couples alleviates stress and controls blood pressure. Hand-holding, hugs and sitting or lying cuddled up produces…

Touch Reduces Stress
Wellness

Touch Reduces Stress

Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD | January 2, 2012

Married couples who give each other back rubs or touch each other affectionately in other ways for at least 30…