Can Doing Things for Others ImproveYour Health? Here’s What Science Says

Discover how helping others can reduce stress, boost immunity, and even help you live longer.  Learn the science behind kindness and health.  

In a world that often tells us to “put yourself first”, science is showing us a powerful truth: doing good for others might be one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. From lowering blood pressure to boosting mood and even extending your life, acts of kindness and generosity don’t just feel good — they do good.  

The Science Behind Giving: Why It’s Good for You

When you help others — whether you’re volunteering, supporting a friend, or simply being kind — your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals like oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin.  These hormones promote happiness, reduce stress, and foster connection.  This isn’t just a temporary buzz; consistent acts of kindness have been linked to lower rates of depression and anxiety.  

4 Surprising Health Benefits of Helping Others

1.  Lower Stress and Blood Pressure: helping others can shift your focus away from personal stressors, promoting a calming effect.  Studies show that people who volunteer regularly tend to have lower blood pressure and reduced levels of cortisol.  

   
   

2. Stronger Immune System: chronic stress is known to weaken immune function.  Kindness acts as a buffer, reducing inflammation and potentially improving your body’s ability to fight illness.  

3. Improved Mental Health: engaging in meaningful acts can increase feelings of purpose and self-worth, which are linked to lower rates of depression and better emotional resilience.

   
   

4. Longer Lifespan: 

   • Research from Harvard and Carnegie Mellon University suggests people who support others live longer healthier lives

   • A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that older adults who volunteered > 100 hours per year had reduced risk of mortality compared to those who did not volunteer

   • Research in Social Science & Medicine showed that helping behaviors, including grandparenting, were associated with increased longevity despite other health indicators

   • A meta-analysis in Psychology and Aging reported that volunteering reduced mortality risk by 24% after adjusting for other variables such as health

   • Another study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that able-bodied volunteers had significantly increased survival compared to non-volunteers

Need Some Ideas? Let’s Go Local!

1. The Hope Center 

2. God’s Pantry Food Bank

3. Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass

4. UK HealthCare System

5. Family Care Center

6. Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass 

7. Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning

8. Lexington Humane Society

9. Paws 4 the Cause

10. Seedleaf

11. Bluegrass Greensource

12. Trees Lexington 

13. LexArts

14. Lexington Art League

15. WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour

16. Lexington Public Library

17. International Book Project

18. Lexington Parks and Recreation 

19. Step by Step

At Rooted Health, we believe wellness is about more than green smoothies and workouts.  It’s also about connection, purpose, and the simple joy of caring for others.  So the next time you’re feeling stressed or stuck, try reaching out to help someone else.  You might just help yourself in the process…