The Power of Helping Others (And How It Helps You, Too)

Helping others isn’t just good for the people we help, it’s good for us, too. Acts of kindness and connection are deeply linked to emotional wellbeing, purpose, and even longevity.

Research from the Mental Health Foundation shows that giving is one of the “Five Ways to Wellbeing.” Altruism activates brain regions related to reward, social bonding and trust, releasing feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin. A study in Psychological Science also found that people who volunteered regularly had lower levels of depression and higher life satisfaction.

Helping others creates a powerful ripple effect: it strengthens relationships, reinforces our values and reminds us that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves.

Simple ways to help others (even when you're busy):

• Send a voice note or check-in text to a friend

• Share a skill or piece of advice you’ve found useful

• Be present, really listen when someone speaks

You don’t need to be a saviour or a hero. Small, consistent acts of care are enough.

At ESO, we guide you in connecting more deeply to both yourself and others. In sessions on Relationships, Meaning & Purpose and Self-Worth, we explore how generosity strengthens our emotional resilience and how supporting others often reminds us of our own strength.

Helping others isn’t just something you do when you feel strong. Sometimes it’s what helps you become strong.