Loneliness

Research in the United States has found a link between physical health and loneliness in the elderly. Disturbed sleep and increased stress hormone levels were more evident in lonely people.

Current Directions in Psychological Science (2007) 16: 187-191

Ron Coleman and Recovery

A friend of mine was on a ferry travelling from Harris to the mainland when he met and became engaged in conversation with Ron Coleman. My friend was impressed with Ron's views on mental health not realising the impact he has had on mental health practice through his work on Recovery. I remember when I was a relatively new nurse coming across the Victim to Victor book on voices. It had a major influence on how I approached working with people who experienced voices and also reinforced many of my own beliefs regarding "treatment" and "recovery". You can read about Ron's life here. Useful and often inspiring information elsewhere on the site too.