Having good mental health is crucial for our ability to handle difficulties, build relationships and flourish in all aspects of life. Mental well-being is essential for leading a fulfilling and purposeful existence. Unfortunately, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 10 million Americans live with a severe mental disorder—anxiety and major depression being the most prevalent.
Of additional concern, a recent survey of over 3,000 individuals in the U.S. aged 12 to 26 concluded members of Generation Z are more likely than others to report experiencing stress, loneliness and anxiety. Less than 50% of Gen Zers believe they are thriving. But there were hopeful findings as well. Gen Z is optimistic, with more than 75% believing they have a promising future ahead, despite feeling unprepared for it.
And there is reason for optimism. Not just for Gen Z, but anyone looking for a single way to improve their lives and mental health. Being more generous can help.
Generosity has a profound effect on our mental well-being. Research has shown that individuals who regularly perform acts of kindness without expecting anything in return tend to have higher levels of life satisfaction and experience more positive emotions. One of the most well-known psychological advantages of being generous is the increase in happiness and overall well-being.
Another psychological benefit of generosity is known as the “helper’s high.” This term describes the feelings of joy and satisfaction that arise from helping others. When we’re generous, our brains release endorphins, which create a natural high that can be positively addictive. Moreover, generosity has been associated with personal growth and enhanced self-esteem. Engaging in acts of kindness gives us a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives. This can lead to increased self-esteem and a greater sense of confidence in our abilities.
It is important to emphasize that being generous does not always mean making grand gestures or giving large sums of money. Even small acts of kindness, like lending an ear to a friend or assisting a neighbor, can greatly improve your mental health. Ultimately, being generous creates a positive cycle where your well-being is enhanced along with the well-being of those you assist.
The Science Is In
While it is intuitive that doing good makes us feel good, there is a growing body of literature that provides evidence for the positive impact of kindness on our mental health. Numerous studies have shown that regularly practicing acts of kindness toward others and ourselves can lead to an improvement in our overall well-being. Interestingly, these studies have also found that individuals who engage in generous behavior have a greater volume of gray matter in brain regions associated with empathy and compassion.
It’s believed generosity is based on the brain’s reward system, which generates positive emotions and regulates social behavior. When we do kind things, our brains release neurotransmitters such as dopamine and oxytocin. Dopamine creates feelings of pleasure and reward, while oxytocin, known as the “love hormone,” is important for social bonding and attachment.
These effects also spill over into our physical health. One of the most significant benefits of engaging in acts of kindness is the reduction of stress levels. When we are kind, our bodies release endorphins, which are natural painkillers that help reduce stress and anxiety.
Healing Divides
Many people argue that there is more division in society today than ever before. However, a closer look at any other decade in history reveals this claim is not accurate. What is true, though, is that the human race is currently confronting new challenges that our ancestors did not. These challenges include the shift away from multigenerational homes, longer lifespans accompanied by chronic diseases and 24/7 technological stimulation. These factors have permanently altered the dynamics of human interaction and emotions, often leading to more isolation and what the surgeon general has called a loneliness epidemic.
When viewed from the community level, not only does generosity benefit us as individuals, but it also has a positive impact on society. When we perform acts of kindness, we feel more connected to others and something greater than ourselves. This can increase our sense of social responsibility and our desire to make a positive impact on the world.
Moreover, generosity has been found to have a cumulative impact. When we participate in acts of generosity, we motivate others to do likewise, creating a ripple effect and positive feedback loop of benevolence that greatly influences our communities and the world as a whole.
Intentional Balance
Striving to be more generous to improve mental health should not only apply to actions toward others. It is equally important to be generous with oneself. As the saying goes, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Whether it’s dedicated time alone, learning something new, setting boundaries with a loved one, positive self-talk or calling someone more often, any small act that helps refuel your mind and body puts you in a better position to give and receive goodness. And the receiving is important. When you are kind to others, you are more aware of and open to gestures of kindness toward you. You feel more worthy of good things.
By practicing self-generosity and external generosity, one can effectively reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Because generosity is associated with better relationships and social connections, when we perform acts of kindness, we are more likely to establish meaningful connections with others, which can result in increased social support and a stronger sense of belonging.
It’s important to reiterate that being generous doesn’t require large gestures or financial contributions. Small acts of kindness as simple as a smile when one needs support or checking in on a loved one can have a positive impact on your mental health and well-being as well as that of others. Being generous certainly isn’t a cure-all, but it is an effective, simple way to improve your life starting today.
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