328 Double Placebo

Chronic pain, sexual dysfunction, Parkinson’s, and many other ailments respond robustly to placebos.

OK, so?

A recent fMRI study shows placebo reduces pain-related activity in the spinal cord.

Placebo effects extend beyond the brain. (Science 326)

(I agree, I walked on hot coals in 1985)

Interesting, but still…

Two recent antidepressant trials show a doubling in placebo response since the 1980s. (!)

“It’s not that the old meds are getting weaker,” drug developers say.

“It’s as if the placebo effect is somehow getting stronger.”

Now you got me!

Get /re-activate a hobby

Use the Internet… find You Tube jokes to run in the background.

Take time to cook, read, etc.

and don’t be surprised when your whole psyche quickly acts as a giant Placebo and actually causes you greater well-being.

Consider the alternative!

These are Related:

# 6 Feed Yourself – 11 Feedback – 22 Attitude – 38 Carrier Wave – 55 Oxygen – 87 Barriers

94 Increasing Vitality – 245 Go Fishing – 246 Environment – 253 Just-in-Case – 302 Party Time