Sad? Fine Conversation Can Help

Scientific American Mind reports that a stimulating conversation can offset sadness.

The happiest subjects of a study spent 70% more time talking vs. unhappiest sub­jects, suggesting merely being around others increases happi­ness. The happiest subjects also participated in 1/3rd less small talk and had twice as many in-depth conversations vs. the most unhappy participants.

Results do not confirm if substantive interaction makes people happy or happy people simply have substantive interactions. But results suggest that five weekly substantive conversations could significantly increase your happiness.