Have you heard about the latest research about blogging?  The Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne has released the results of a study regarding the psychological implications of blogging.  In their words:

Blogging helps you feel less isolated and more satisfied with your friendships, according to new research.

How The Blog Study Was Conducted

The study essentially looked at two groups of people:  those who use social networking sites but don’t blog and didn’t intend to, and those who do use those sites but plan on blogging. They were given a survey to fill out regarding their mental health.

Those who planned on blogging reported feeling more depressed and generally unsatisfied with their social situation.

Long-Term Benefits of Blogging

Two months later, the participants were re-surveyed.  All respondents stated that they felt less depressed, anxious, and better in general.  However, those who had blogged felt more connected and happy with their social situation than those who didn’t blog.

“Keeping a blog is a bit like writing a diary,” Baker said. “It helps people vent their emotions, talk about their feelings and problems. The difference is that while a diary is private, blogging invites feedback from others.”

After two months, the group was surveyed again with 59 responding. Those who had kept a blog felt more socially connected and were more satisfied with their social support and friendships than those who didn’t blog.

The key factor?

Comments.

Unlike a traditional diary, our blogs invite comments!  If you’re a blogger, you know how much each and every comment is appreciated. The sense of community and friendship that the blogosphere creates is a wonderful thing, indeed.

So, bloggers…keep on bloggin’!  If you aren’t and feel like your sense of connection to others is lacking, consider starting a blog of your own.  It might do you a world of good.