9781422275429

THE BENEFITS OF HELPING A GOOD CAUSE

A HEALTHY HEART A recent study found that there is a significant correlation between helping and the heart’s health. It was found that people who volunteer are about 40 percent less likely to develop high blood pressure as compared to those who do not volunteer. REDUCE STRESS T he act of helping a cause can also help reduce stress. One study found that people who helped charities had lower cortisol levels. The presence of this hormone in the body causes it to create feelings of anxiety and panic, and higher blood pressure levels. In contrast, people that did less for charities were found to have a higher level of the stress hormone in their body. A SENSE OF PURPOSE Helping a cause provides a sense of purpose to an individual. People who volunteer feel that their life is worthwhile and satisfying. This ultimately leads to improved physical and emotional health.

HELPING THE PLANET MAKES YOU HAPPY According to research, people who engage in acts of kindness and giving are happier in general as compared to others. Acts of kindness carried out regularly or even once a week can lead to greater happiness and joy in life. EMOTIONAL HEALTH Studies have also shown that the act of charity results in emotional well- being. The person who gives to charity feels improved self-esteem. This gives a feeling of satisfaction to the individual. In a way, giving to others allows the individual to create a “kindness bank account.” The more kind acts are filled in the account, the better the emotional state of the person.

11

HELPING TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT—WHY IT’S NEEDED