Newswise — Ottawa (February 6, 2012) – Everybody would agree that feeling appreciated and loved is good for you, benefiting both your body and soul. Whether those expressions of affection come from a romantic partner, family member, colleague, or neighbor, they positively impact our health. This Valentine’s Day, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research gathered experts to demystify the scientific basis behind those benefits.

Why do we need to feel loved? The following CIHR experts are available to discuss various aspects of love and affection, all with a scientific twist.

Experts:

Why does feeling loved lead to a healthier mind – scientific explanationDr. Hymie Anisman, CIHR-funded researcher (Ottawa, Ontario)

Visit grandma this Valentine’s Day… and send her a text message as well - Healthy aging and social media interactionsDr. Wendy Young, CIHR-funded researcher (St-John’s, Newfoundland)

Loving parents – for happier and more peaceful childrenDr. Françoise Maheu, CIHR-funded researcher (Montreal, Quebec)

Show the love – possible soothing effects of public displays of affectionDr. Karen L. Blair, CIHR-funded researcher (Kingston, Ontario)

Teenagers valued by their peers - research demonstrates positive influence on well-being Dr. R. Mara Brendgen, CIHR-funded researcher (Montreal, Quebec)

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) is the Government of Canada's health research investment agency. CIHR's mission is to create new scientific knowledge and to enable its translation into improved health, more effective health services and products, and a strengthened Canadian health care system. Composed of 13 Institutes, CIHR provides leadership and support to more than 14,100 health researchers and trainees across Canada.

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