You’ve probably heard that helping others is “good for the soul”, but did you know it’s also excellent for your mental health? It’s like emotional recycling—take someone else’s rubbish day, help them out, and somehow, your own mood gets a makeover. A bit magical, really.
Now, this isn’t about donning a cape and rescuing kittens from flaming buildings (though, respect if you do). Helping can be as simple as checking in on a friend, carrying a neighbour’s shopping, or giving up your seat on the bus without looking smug about it. These tiny acts send your brain into a sort of happy chemical frenzy—dopamine, oxytocin, endorphins—the whole feel-good squad shows up.
Science agrees. Studies have shown that altruistic behaviour reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and even helps fight depression. Why? Because helping others gives you a sense of purpose. When you’re part of something bigger than yourself, the world feels a little less like it’s spinning out of control. You get to be a stabilising force, even if it’s just for someone else’s Tuesday.
There's also the delightful bonus of perspective. It's hard to obsess over your third existential crisis of the week when you're busy figuring out how to get someone else's cat out of a tree. Helping redirects your focus. It’s a mental palate cleanser—like a sorbet for the soul.
But here’s the twist: you don’t have to be a naturally altruistic angel to benefit. Even if you start helping others just to distract yourself from your own chaos, you’ll still get the perks. It’s like tricking your brain into joy. Sneaky, but effective.
Of course, this isn’t about self-sacrifice to the point of burnout. If you're drowning, you can't exactly save someone else from the waves. The peace comes from balance—offering a hand without losing your own footing.
So, next time you’re feeling untethered or overwhelmed, consider reaching out—not just for help, but to offer it. You might be surprised how calming it is to be the helper instead of the helped. Plus, it gives you a great excuse to avoid doing your own laundry.
In a world that’s often loud, messy, and more than a little unkind, choosing to be a source of support can bring an odd sort of serenity. And who doesn’t want a bit more of that?
Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.
