Get the warm and fuzzies: what are the mental benefits of do

When we donate to charity, we often focus on the good we are doing for others, which is fantastic, but we can sometimes forget about the good we are doing for ourselves.

This is in no way selfish, as helping others can help alleviate the sadness or fatigue they’re experiencing.

This is because donating to a charity, such as those geared towards improving TB treatment in South Africa, can have significant benefits on your mental health.

Donating to a charity to stop TB can improve your own mental health. This does not only mean that you will feel good but you will activate other hormones in your brain such as dopamine, which can help to alleviate stress and make you feel happier about life. So, if you are still on the fence about donating to charity, read on below for the mental benefits of donating.

You will feel more satisfied with life

One of the many benefits of donating to charity is that feeling of satisfaction that you have made a difference. This mental benefit means that you will have a better outlook on life, which can improve your mood and productivity in all areas of your life.

And if you live in a community of people who give back to others, you will find that everyone is happier and more satisfied with their lives. Having satisfaction will encourage you to continue donating to help charities, such as those who work towards disease control and prevention of tuberculosis (TB) in the Western Cape. Having a more positive outlook on life is vital for those who might be feeling slightly lost or unhappy with their current situation, so try donating to a charity or organisation at least once a month.

Your stress levels will be reduced

Reducing stress can be difficult, especially if you have a high-powered position. You likely feel that your worries are piling up and you do not have an outlet to help you let off steam. But you can easily reduce your stress by volunteering for a local animal shelter or donating goods to a charitable organisation.

Volunteering might involve physical action, which is ideal for de-stressing and feeling happier. For example, you might be required to help pack and ship care packages for those affected by a crisis in another country, or you could volunteer to walk dogs and wash puppies at an animal shelter. This physical activity will release dopamine endorphins into your brain, which are used to help relieve stress and make you feel happier and more at ease.

You will care for yourself

Think about it, if you are helping others and caring for them, aren’t you more likely to care for yourself? This another of the mental benefits of donating to charity and giving back to others. You will likely invest in a healthy diet and exercise regime, or look into medical checkups if you are helping a medical charity.

Taking care of yourself is vital in today’s fast-paced world of stressful roles and demanding achievements. You may find that helping out at your local children’s home or homeless shelter can teach you to look after yourself as you also look after others. This benefit will not only affect your physical health but your mental health too, as you will become happier and healthier as well as being able to help those who need it the most. Be sure to choose a charity that is close to your heart.

You can grow your social circle

Having a social circle full of friends which you can reach out to in times of need is important, and helping with your local charity can help to build this social circle. You will be able to meet more like-minded people while having a more positive social experience, as well as make fast friends who enjoy spending time with you doing what you enjoy doing.

You might not think that donating to or volunteering for a charity is a sociable activity but it can be a great way to meet more friends. You will also become more involved with your local community if your charity is local, which can help to build and maintain bonds with your neighbours and fellow citizens. This can be helpful when you are experiencing times of difficulty and need to ask for help from people who know you and understand your situation.

Feel good while doing good

Donating to charity is one of the best ways to give back to those who need it the most, but it can also be a great way to improve your mental health. This is because you will feel more satisfied with life due to lower stress levels and better self-care. Your social circle will improve and you will become happier and will find you enjoy spending time with like-minded people who can help you and nurture you.