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Thinking positive: the protective power of happiness
Professor Angela Clow

There is increasing evidence that happiness is associated with health advantages. This talk addressed the mechanisms by which happiness and health are linked. For example, do positive emotions have a direct influence upon biological systems to promote health, or does happiness work by providing a buffer to the negative effects of stress on health? In particular this talk explored the importance of the immune system and biological rhythms as intermediaries between mind, body and health.

Professor Angela Clow is trained in neuropharmacology, physiology and psychology and likes to work at the interface of these disciplines. For her PhD (Institute of Psychiatry, London) she investigated the function of brain dopamine receptors, and during her post-doctoral studies (Royal Postgraduate Medical School) she developed an interest in the biochemistry of stress. In 1989 she joined the University of Westminster where she became a founder member of the interdisciplinary Psychophysiology and Stress Research Group (PSRG). Professor Clow's current research investigates the physiological pathways by which stress and well-being can affect health. In particular she studies daily patterns in the secretion of cortisol, a hormone important in the regulation of day-night cycles, as well as responses to stress. Professor Clow has published over 80 full-length peer-reviewed papers, 2 books, and 24 book chapters or reviews.

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