You know the feeling you get when you help people? This feeling is not just emotional. Research says it is good for our complete persona. Unfortunately, we are so busy in our own little worlds, that we only help people out in our spare time. In order to help people, lead mentally healthy lives, let’s understand the benefits of altruism. Altruism is when we put someone else’s needs before our own. It is definitely better for our holistic well-being . This characteristic has certain physical and mental benefits.
Benefits of altruism:
- Feels good:
Helping others promotes a positive physiological change in the brain associated with happiness. It improves social support, encourages us to lead a physically more active life.
- Brings a sense of belonging and reduces isolation:
Being part of a social network can make one feel less isolated, such as volunteering at a drop in centre.
- Helps us keep things in perspective:
Helping other in need makes us realise how fortunate we are. It makes us see our lives from a different angle. And we are thankful for things we weren’t before.
- Spreads happiness:
An act of kindness can improve confidence, control, happiness and optimism. It also encourages people to do the same as was done with them.
- Helps yourself:
Evidence shows that the benefits of helping others lasts long after the act itself by forming positive memories.
- Reduces stress:
Doing things for others helps maintain good health.
- Removes negativity:
Random acts of kindness decreases feelings of anger, aggression and stabilizes our over health.
- Improves longevity:
- Giving and helping other may help us live longer.
So go out there and make more time for people around you. Not just those you love, but even complete strangers. Help a blind man cross the road. Volunteer at an orphanage or an old age home. Teach poor children how to read. There are so many areas where we can help our fellow humans. And if you can’t do this out of pure humanity, do it for own sake. For the sake of your mental and emotional being. For your own holistic growth.
Keywords: emotional, mental, holistic well-being, altruism
