of the world throughout history has survived—and
often thrived—on just such a program.
Quality Time with Family
Time invested with electronic media can also
weaken the family bond. Excessive time is of great
concern because strong family connections are
powerful predictors of enhanced emotional health.
We need to prioritize interactive activities with our
families. Go places and do things which are fun,
interesting, and f ulfilling.
Trust and Emotional Health
When we have trusting relationships with one
or more individuals, electrical and chemical “trust
signals” from the higher brain centers, particularly
the frontal lobe, can shut down and even shut off
the fear system coursing through our lower brain
centers. This trust aids in the control of anxiety and
stress. Among those chemical messengers of trust
is the hormone oxytocin. Increased oxytocin levels
also improve a host of interpersonal dimensions—all
of which tend to bolster our emotional state.
Consequently, one strategy to boost emotional
health is to develop more trusting relationships.
“Horizontal trust” in others is highly beneficial;
“vertical trust” in a loving God is especially powerful.