The reawakening of altruism is one of the few benefits of our extended isolation last year. When we were unable to be with our friends and loved ones, we were reminded how central social support is to wellbeing, and how fulfilling it is to reach out, especially to those who are lonelier and needier than we are.

It is one of the most important lessons that Covid has taught us, and what a shame if we were to discard it – particularly at this time of year.

This aspect of human behaviour – selfless concern for the wellbeing of others – is hugely beneficial both physically and psychologically.

Stephen Post at Case Western Reserve University, Ohio, researched altruism and concluded that: “a strong correlation exists between the wellbeing, happiness, health and longevity of people who are emotionally and behaviourally compassionate”.

Post cites a large survey carried out by Allan Luks, formerly at the Institute for Advancement of Health in New York. Luks found those who provided informal support to others, such as chauffeuring or delivering meals, had less depression and a greater sense of personal control than non-helpers. A five-year study of 423 older couples led by Stephanie Brown at the University of Michigan found that those who provided practical help or offered emotional support to friends, family or neighbours tended to live longer than those who didn’t.  

Altruism also makes us feel more competent and gives our life greater meaning. We’re more active mentally and physically when we reach out to others. And helping others prevents us thinking about our own problems.

As Elizabeth Midlarsky at Columbia University, in her paper Helping as Coping points out: when we help others we enjoy an increased sense of belonging.

However, Post warns that the benefits of altruism must be tempered “with some caveats”. In particular, we must avoid becoming overwhelmed by helping tasks, lest the benefits are cancelled out by exhaustion.

So how can you continue to reach out to those who will benefit from your thoughtfulness and help, without becoming overloaded?

Spread your generosity, but do so in moderation

Doug Oman at the Buck Center for Research in Ageing in California found that it’s healthier to widen your social connectivity by giving time to several organisations or individuals rather than only one. Remember, however, not to overdo it: Marc Musick at the University of Michigan found those who spent around 40 hours a year volunteering incurred the greatest personal benefits (this was pre-pandemic).

Help in ways that matter most to you

Gwynn and Martin Sullivan at Duke University, North Carolina, noted that patients previously hospitalised for coronary heart disease who volunteered to visit current sufferers reported better health themselves, less depression and a greater sense of purpose and meaning.

So for your own benefit as well as for others, continue with your altruistic activities as much as you sensibly can right now – and in ways that really matter to you.