When is Giving Tuesday 2024? Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson explains how giving back can impact your mental and physical health

CHICAGO (WLS) – With Thanksgiving and Black Friday in the background, we’re approaching the time of year when people are encouraged to give back.

Donation Tuesday is December 3rd. And whether you choose to donate money, time, or energy, you’ll find there are benefits to your health.

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Chicago philanthropist Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, author of “Glow: 90 Days to Create Your Vibrant Life from Within,” joined ABC7 on Monday evening.

Stephenson talked about how you can give back and donate your time and energy this holiday season:

• Lower stress levels and blood pressure: Scientists have studied the biochemistry of giving and found that when one person offers help to another, the reward centers in the brain are stimulated. This leads to the release of endorphins, serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin, which are associated with positive feelings of joy and a happy mood, as well as a feeling of connection with others.
• Increase self-esteem and happiness: Giving something back increases a sense of meaning and appreciation. According to a report in “The Science of Generosity,” those who perform acts of kindness, even small ones like picking up something someone else dropped, experience an increased sense of happiness. Giving is also associated with lower burnout rates and more successful romantic relationships.
• Increase life expectancy: People who donate also have lower blood pressure and reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol and live longer. An example of this is volunteer work; Researchers have theorized that volunteer work often offers a wealth of opportunities to improve health, such as increased opportunities for physical exercise, positive social interactions, and positive cognitive challenges.

Stephenson is the author of Vibrant: A Groundbreaking Program to Get Energized, Own Your Health and Glow and Glow: 90 Days to Create Your Vibrant Life from Within.

You can find her on Instagram and Facebook.