Giving is Good for You: 5 Surprising Benefits of Giving Back
We’ve all experienced the warm, fuzzy feelings that come from helping others, whether by volunteering our time, donating to a charity, or lending a listening ear to a friend or family member. It’s true ““ giving feels good! But did you know that there are many science-backed mental and physical health benefits of giving back to others?
Donate to Goodwill and change a life!
As we enter the season of giving, it’s an excellent time to learn about the many benefits of giving back and helping others.
Here are five reasons why giving is good for you:
#1: Giving is good for physical health
Giving doesn’t just make us feel happy; it can also help us live longer, healthier lives! Studies have found that people who regularly give to others experience a number of health benefits, such as:
- Lower blood pressure
- Lower stress levels
- Less anxiety and depression
- Greater longevity
In addition to a well-balanced diet and regular exercise, giving back is a great way to promote better health!
#2: Giving can improve mental wellness
Another huge benefit of giving back is that it can boost our mental health and well-being as well as our physical health. When we engage in activities where we help others and make a difference, it actually releases ” feel-good” chemicals in our brains that can lead to feelings of happiness, peace, self-esteem, and fulfillment. In this way, giving back gives our lives an invaluable sense of purpose and meaning!
#3: Giving encourages social connection
The act of giving back is a powerful way to connect with like-minded people and bond over the joy of helping others in need. So, make giving a group activity, whether you choose to volunteer or gather up donations. You may find that your generosity is returned to you in the future!
#4: Giving cultivates gratitude
Gratitude is known to provide a number of positive effects, including a more positive mental outlook, stronger social bonds, and more satisfaction with life. Giving back and helping others helps us experience a greater appreciation for the people and things around us, making it easier to practice gratitude every day!
#5: Giving is contagious (pass it on!)
Giving back doesn’t just provide a one-time benefit; it creates a ripple effect of kindness and generosity within a community that spreads far and wide. When you take the time to donate, volunteer, or help others in another way, you never know who you might inspire to take action, too!
Goodwill Makes it Easy to Give Back!
Now that you know all about the benefits of giving back, we hope you’re encouraged to make a difference! For an easy, affordable, and meaningful way to give back to others this holiday season, look no further than Goodwill. Whether you choose to shop in one of our stores or donate your gently-used clothing and household items to Ohio Valley Goodwill, you’re creating a lasting impact right here in Greater Cincinnati!
Goodwill’s Logo
At Ohio Valley Goodwill, we transform the value of donated goods into job skills training and employment services for local individuals with disabilities and veterans who want to go to work in their communities. The revenue generated from selling donated items in Goodwill’s retail stores helps to support these valuable programs and services, putting friends and neighbors on the path to personal and vocational success!
Head to your local Ohio Valley Goodwill retail store or donation site to shop for unique finds or donate to Goodwill today. Thank you for supporting Goodwill’s mission to change lives through the power of work!
