When tragedy strikes, like the recent flooding in Texas, our hearts often go out to those affected. We may feel compelled to help in any way we can, and with today’s technology, offering assistance is easier than ever. By making a monetary donation or volunteering your time, not only are you helping someone in need, but you could also be improving your own mental state. In fact, scientists at the University of Zurich have found that generosity plays a role in a person’s happiness.
About 350 million people worldwide suffer from depression, leading individuals to experience sadness, fatigue, and even a loss of interest in hobbies. If you’ve ever sought treatment for depression from your doctor, you know their go-to solution is usually a prescription for antidepressants. However, these drugs come with a long list of potential side effects, including weight gain, nausea, insomnia, and even an increased risk of clogged arteries.
But what if there were a simpler, more natural way to improve your emotional well-being? According to the University of Zurich study, simply being generous or even just intending to be generous can improve your mood.
The Science Behind Generosity and Happiness
During the study, 50 volunteers were promised a sum of money and tasked with deciding whether to give some or all of it away to someone they cared for. Brain activity, particularly in the region associated with happiness, was monitored throughout the decision-making process and participants were asked to rate their happiness before and after the experiment.
Researchers found that participants who engaged in generous behavior were happier than their more selfish counterparts. Interestingly, the amount of money given away had no significant impact on happiness levels. Furthermore, even the intention to be generous without actually giving away money, had a positive impact on happiness.
Five Steps to Boost Happiness through Giving
If you’re eager to improve your mood and battle depression, consider incorporating generosity into your daily life. Here are five steps to help you kick-start a more giving lifestyle:
- Embrace gratitude: The first step toward a more generous life is cultivating gratitude. Start a gratitude journal and list all the things that you appreciate in your life, from material possessions to relationships, and from personal accomplishments to opportunities.
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Start small: If you’re new to giving, start with a modest act of generosity. Whether it’s donating a few dollars to your favorite charity or giving a small gift, focus on the act of giving rather than the value.
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Follow your passion: Identify a cause or an organization that inspires you. Whether it’s animal welfare, childhood literacy, environmental conservation, civil rights, or your religion, giving to something you believe in will enhance the sense of satisfaction and happiness.
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Give your time: Remember that generosity isn’t only monetary. Donate your time by volunteering for your chosen cause or organization.
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Make it a habit: To maintain the positive effects on your mood, make giving a regular part of your life.
If you’re considering making a donation to support those affected by a disaster, make sure to do your research on where your money will be going. Trusted sources, such as ABC News, offer good advice on how, when, and what to give.
Incorporating generosity into your life can not only bring happiness to you but also improve the world around you. So take a step today toward a more giving way of living, and you may just find your mood improving as well.
