As digital tech infiltrates all parts of society, the positive effects of face-to-face interaction are often overlooked, particularly in terms of health and wellbeing. Canvas8 spoke to clinical psychologist Dr. Catherine Haslam about how social groups play a key role in personal identity.

Social prescribing – wherein patients are told to try creative workshops, regular exercise, and volunteering to improve their wellbeing – has been around for years, but it’s gaining the attention of policy-makers. How can it proactively tackle physical and mental health problems?

While Americans used to look to doctors and nurses for the final word on medical matters, that’s not always the case nowadays. Influenced by social media gurus and aided by digital tracking tools, the ‘worried well’ are taking a proactive approach to health that minimizes input from professionals.

The passing of time may bring people wisdom, but it can also bring a sense of isolation. With men often less willing to openly discuss mental health matters, the UK Men’s Sheds Association provides spaces in which older blokes can bond and build, all the while overcoming their loneliness.