Why Giving Back is Key to Mental Health

More often than not, the term ‘giving back’ is perceived as how our generosity may affect the lives of those at the receiving end, and not viewed introspectively into how it affects ours.

While this is not exactly misleading, it is of utmost importance to note why that small act of kindness may physically and mentally affect us. What are the perks of giving back, and why is it vital to our mental health?

Our mental strength will always be on the high. Studies have shown that giving back, especially done in the right manner, have loads of health benefits. You can even shop and donate with organizations lime Amazon Smile and DealAid

When you find yourself doing something you have a strong passion for: attending events to raise awareness or volunteering in a homeless shelter, you will experience the kind of happiness that will lower your blood pressure and reduce stress.

In so doing, the brain releases endorphins due to the excretion of oxytocin, dopamine and even serotonin which will make you generally feel good about yourself. 

It is almost impossible to feel depressed when you derive immense pleasure in giving back. It gives us a sense of purpose. Spending time and resources to put smiles on people’s faces fills us with a sense of belonging and purpose. Actions like donating to a just cause not only makes it all worthwhile for the people but make you realize that you are there to fulfil a pressing need. That alone will improve our mental state.

It creates social improvement. Volunteering for a cause is an exciting way of connecting with like minds, thereby increasing social activity. This can even give you the opportunity of sharing your knowledge and skills with others, and further help you to ward off loneliness which is a major cause of depression and anxiety.

It is proven that volunteers with past records of anger issues, compulsive disorders, and even post-traumatic stress disorders have become more emotionally balanced after connecting with others who are in need.

It helps to tackle anxiety when it arises. While giving back helps you to build your social network, it also helps to increase your support network. This raises your self-esteem which is a strong tool in battling anxiety. You can derive great pleasure in the littlest of actions: writing a thank you note or leaving a tip for a waiter, cleaning your environment, or even joining others to run a race sponsored by an NGO. These are sure ways to improve your mental health and interpersonal skills.