Long-lasting benefits of happy memories

Recalling vivid joyful moments from the past could shield against depression, suggests research from the U.K. Subjects were prompted to take a trip down memory lane as investigators asked them to think of positive memories associated with various words. The results: In follow-up tests a year later, those whose recollections were detailed were less vulnerable to depression and had lower cortisol levels and fewer negative thoughts about themselves than those whose memories were more vague. Researchers suspect thinking about specific happy memories boosts resilience.