Michael Klein

Dr. Michael Klein, Professor for Clinical Psychology, Mental Health and Applied Addiction Research at the Catholic University of Applied Sciences, Cologne, Germany. More than 30 years of experience in practical psychotherapy, addiction prevention and treatment research. Founder and head of the first study Master in Addiction Prevention and Therapy in Germany since 2001.

How mental well-being and happiness contribute to longevity

The importance of mental well-being and happiness as enhancers for longevity is well established in psychological health research. Therefore, the role of well-being has to be considered in lifestyle research and practice. Well-being is often associated with positive social situations including moderate alcohol consumption. Of, course happiness and life-satisfaction are possible without alcohol. But if alcohol in small doses is free of risk – as it seems to be -, why should people renounce alcohol. The demonization of moderate alcohol consumption could have more negative than positive consequences, as history already teaches. On the other hand, consuming alcohol in small doses can improve quality of life and well-being, esp. combined to a Mediterranean diet. Strict alcohol prohibition, however, enhances reactance and feeling of guilt in consuming situations. Both is detracting people from well-being and happiness. Consequently, moderate and sensible alcohol consumption might improve overall mental well-being and thus contribute to effective mental health prevention.