Dr. Patrick Legeron. “Altruistic behavior changes brain function”

Madame Figaro: Why are relationships with others so important?
Dr. Patrick Legeron: “Man is a social animal”, as defined by Aristotle. he lives and acts in constant interaction with others. It is necessary for its survival and, beyond that, for its construction and development. Thus, WHO defines health as a complete state of physical and mental, but also social, well-being. Studies show that the presence of social support is a predictor of improved longevity; isolated people have more health problems and live shorter lives. Altruistic and caring behavior has been shown to alter brain function and promote the release of the feel-good neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin.

Are we prone to this social connection?
It is not necessarily innate, but rather educational. From an early age, it is important to develop emotional intelligence, that is, on the one hand, the ability to express, accept, understand and understand one’s own emotions (anger, sadness, frustration…) and on the other hand, the ability to decipher and manage the emotions of others, which essentially includes empathy. This intelligence is one of the first characteristics of relationships with others.

Can we develop our emotional intelligence?
It really works. You can first make it a goal to show altruistic behavior several times a day: make someone pass in front of you in the supermarket, help a neighbor carry a bag, give up your seat on the bus… Then with a loved one. those like at work, you need to be in dialogue, listen and understand. Ultimately, we must seek solutions with respect for ourselves and others. With quality relationships, we win on every level, personal and collective.

A new fear of othersBy Patrick Legeron, Christophe Andre and Antoine Pelisolo, (Ed. Odile Jacob), 416 p., €23.90.