THE CONNECTION CURE

How a holistic approach to health can make a world of difference to those in need.

Most developed nations are experiencing epidemics of loneliness, depression, and despair, issues that can underpin physical ailments ranging from diabetes to chronic pain. Often, the response of medical professionals is to prescribe drugs, on the assumption that a chemical imbalance is to blame. However, this approach is often misguided, writes Hotz, a “solutions-focused journalist,” in her first book. One alternative is “social prescriptions,” which allow patients to fully communicate what matters to them and what makes them happy. This is not a new idea: Hippocrates, the founder of Western medicine, pointed to the link between mind and body more than 2,000 years ago. Over the centuries, that message got lost in the jargon of pharmaceutical-based, technology-heavy medicine. It is now making a resurgence, and the common components are movement, rediscovery of nature, art, service to others, and a sense of belonging to a compassionate community. It can mean joining a cycling or birdwatching club, learning to dance, or taking up a volunteering role. The actual activity is often less important than involvement with an activity that is satisfying and positive. Hotz provides illustrative case studies and examines research that supports the approach, noting that in several countries, it has been successfully integrated into the broader health system. In the U.S., she notes, big pharma and the complexity of medical insurance are significant obstacles—though progress is occurring. “Instead of replacing other kinds of medicine, social prescriptions complement them, offering healing that pills and procedures can’t offer alone,” she writes. “Instead of just treating symptoms of sickness, social prescriptions reconnect us to our sources of wellness.”

With interesting stories and a broad canvas, Hotz connects readers to a different way of thinking about health and wellness.