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Giving and Happiness

Why is it that so often some of the happiest and most upbeat people are also those who are the most generous and giving? Well, it might be the same question as which came first, the chicken or the egg! It's interesting to wonder if people are giving and generous because they're happy, or if they have a giving a generous spirit as a result of being a happy and contented person.


Research conducted and published by the Corporation for National and Community Service found that volunteering leads to better health, lower rates of mortality, and improved physical and mental health. While this study was largely focused on retirees and the relationship to their physical health and well being, it did show that there is a definite correlation between mental health and volunteering.


The New Republic reported that research showed that people who routinely gave 10 percent or more of their income annually were 9 percent less likely to experience depression. Additionally, research showed that individuals who were considered generous in their relationships, those who were hospitable and emotionally available, were 17 percent more likely to be in "excellent" health.