In a first-of-its-kind randomized study, researchers found that storytelling by black patients for black patients resulted in reductions of 15 mm Hg systolic (vs. 3mm Hg in controls) and 3 mm Hg diastolic (no change in the control groups). This benefit was similar to blood pressure medications. The storytellers had the ability to clearly and persuasively describe their own experiences with hypertension, and told how they interacted with physicians, took their medicines, ate better, and exercised more.
PositiveTip: The power of listening to others tell how they successfully coped with a problem can motivate us toward positive changes.