Charity work can benefit yourself as well as others

THE key steps to help you stay healthy and free of long-term aches and pains are no great secret — regular exercise, watch your weight and eat a healthy diet.

But scientists have now identified another, more unlikely factor that can have a remarkably significant impact: giving to charity.

Mounting evidence suggests that simple acts of altruism such as donating money, volunteering your time for free or even simple acts of kindness can be a major benefit to health — potentially helping us to live longer and bolstering our immune systems.

Following this, London University researchers wanted to see if doing things for others — so-called pro-social behaviour — could also cut the risk of chronic pain, defined as pain lasting three months or more.

Volunteering can bolster our immune systems

As well as the physical suffering, some studies suggest up to 85 per cent of those affected by chronic pain become depressed as a result. This can often reduce the motivation to take self-help measures that might ease pain, such as regular, gentle exercise.

For the recent study, the researchers examined data from 48,000 people who were taking part in a long-term investigation into all aspects of health, called the UK Household Longitudinal Survey, from 2011 to 2020: this included data on so-called pro-social behaviour (essentially, doing things for others’ benefit) and rates of chronic pain.

Read more:

People who are physically active may have higher pain tolerance – study

Proof that positive thinking really can help tackle illness
 

The study participants were asked whether they had donated money to charity in the past 12 months and, if so, how much.

Just over two thirds said they had given money to good causes, while almost one in five had done some volunteer work in the same period.

The researchers matched these details against the number of participants who said chronic pain had seriously disrupted their lives over the nine-year study period.

People who donate money to charity have a reduced risk of experiencing pain

The results, published last month, showed that those who donated money to charity had a reduced risk of experiencing pain or reporting chronic pain of any kind, while doing some voluntary work had an even bigger impact.

And the greatest benefits were seen in those who did both.

The researchers suggested the most likely explanation for this is that volunteering usually involves some kind of physical activity which stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s own pain relievers and mood enhancers.

But simply making a donation may have a similar effect.

Giving to charity can have a remarkable positive impact on our general health

Writing in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research, the researchers said: ‘Pro-social behaviour also promotes better mental health, and we know physical pain and mental health are highly inter-related.’

‘Endorphins are produced when you manage to achieve something you set out to do,’ explains Dr Audrey Tang, a psychologist.

‘They tend to hang around in the body afterwards, which is why they can relieve chronic pain.’

However, research suggests the benefits of being kind go beyond preventing pain.

A 2013 study by psychologists at Arizona State University found that people aged over 55 who offered to help others or charities for free were at least 24 per cent less likely to die prematurely than others the same age who did not.

This could be crucial for people trying to maintain their physical and mental health after retirement, says Dr Tang. ‘As well as the social interaction, you’re exercising and keeping joints mobile and supple.’

Volunteering can bolster our immune systems

Other studies show that acts of kindness can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease — primarily by lowering levels of stress hormones such as cortisol that can drive up blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.

And simply watching somebody else being altruistic can even boost your ability to fight off infections.

For one landmark study back in 1988, researchers at Harvard University in the US asked a group of volunteers to watch a video highlighting the kind acts of charity carried out in India by Mother Teresa.

A second group was asked to watch a film about Hitler’s exploits in World War II. Researchers took blood samples before and after to measure the participants’ levels of immunoglobulin A, a substance released by the immune system as a defence against bacteria, toxins or viruses.

Mother Teresa of Calcutta

The results showed those who saw Mother Teresa’s altruistic behaviour experienced a sudden spike in immunoglobulin A, while those viewing the Hitler showreel had no change.

The idea that even bearing witness to an act of kindness is enough to influence your own health became known as the ‘Mother Teresa effect’:

‘But,’ says Dr Tang, ‘You’ll probably get more benefit from carrying out an altruistic act than just seeing someone do it.’

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Jeff Stelling breaks down in tears on his penultimate Soccer Saturday after giving a speech on mental health and eating disorders.

After more than 25 seasons, the 68 year old will step down from his role as host of Sky Sports’ scores show at the end the 2022/23 season.

He will be incredibly missed by many across the country. Whether at home, on our devices, or in stadiums, he was the face of Saturday afternoons.

Stelling used the show as a platform for him to raise awareness of eating disorders to mark Mental Health Awareness Week.

He found that eating disorders cause more deaths than any other mental disorder each year, with 20% of all cases leading to death.

Jeff Stelling is a national treasure. One of Teessides greatest exports. pic.twitter.com/flRVUmTrxu

— Craig Honeyman (@Craig_Honeyman) May 20, 2023

Jeff Stelling with a powerful message during Mental Health Awareness month ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/ZVVBJ5Ord1

— Sky Sports (@SkySports) May 20, 2023

Addressing the subject through tears, he said: “This is a difficult topic, it’s my second last show so I’m going to have my final sort of rant if you like.

“I’ve got to be careful to get it right.

“There was a march this morning, this relates to [anorexia sufferer] Abby Davies actually.

“There was a march this morning in central London by the people who run the ‘Dump The Scales’ campaign. It’s led by the indefatigable Hope Virgo every year.

“More people die from eating disorders every year than any other mental illness.

“The Government’s lack of awareness and funding is a national disgrace. They decided to put calories for goodness sake on people’s menus.

“Up to 20 per cent of all eating disorder cases end in death and the cycle goes like that.

“Abby said: ‘Boy, girl, woman, man, goes for help, they are told they are not thin enough, they are not underweight enough to need treatment’.

“They go away, they lose more weight, they go further and deeper into the mental morass that they’re in. They have suicidal tendencies.

“They are then told ‘You are now too thin to be treated’ and are offered palliative care for god’s sake.

“So we’re not going to help you but we will try and ensure you die comfortably. It’s 2023. Eating disorders are being swept under the carpet.

“No one should be dying of an eating disorder in 2023. Those with eating disorders need action and help and they need it now.”

The programme then went to adverts, with Jeff quite visibly unable to talk further as emotions get the better of him.

But that’s why we love him, he’s done so much for charity, and this way, the announcement, and way of of spreading awareness, it’s certainly got the message out there.

The video of his speech has gone viral, getting tens of thousands of likes, but also millions of views.

SEE MORE: ‘Secret interview’ held with three candidates to replace Jeff Stelling on Sky Sports

This is how social media users reacted as Jeff Stelling breaks down in tears on his penultimate Soccer Saturday after giving a mental health speech…

@pompeyboy356: Jeff is a great sports host but a better human being. We will miss him on Sky, but I hope he doesn’t stay out of the limelight because we need people like him who say it as it is. You are going to be missed on Saturdays Jeff, thanks for the fun and the passionate messages

@ToffeeMc1878: He’s been a constant voice and face for the coverage of the sport I’ve loved for 15 years. Soccer Saturday won’t be the same without him. This is absolutely brilliant, powerful stuff from a great man @JeffStelling 👏👏

@DonnyPezzolla: @JeffStelling, one helluva legend. How you kept your emotions in check, I don’t know, but we’ll said sir 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

@beardywxm: @JeffStelling is salt of the earth, im gutted he’s retiring from SS, but i applaud this man for using his platform over the years the fight the good fight, thank you Jeff, a million times over. Decent pundit too. Legend.

@Hillzy_CFC: Jeff Stelling is not only a out of the world presenter, he’s a genuine person and a person that is very very hard to replace to fill the role that he has for many years, in the way that he has done it . Absolute legend

@wwfcdrummer: @JeffStelling I love you Jeff you been amazing on sky as I been growing up watching you on sky thank you so much for what you have brought to people lives smile affection love you will be missed Jeff you keep going mate your brilliant guy you will be missed 💙💙take care Jeff

@GillH1973: Jeff is one of if not the best presenter ever. His attention to the facts, his knowledge and dedication has been incomparable.
This statement from him shows he supports so many in an impossible situation. He’ll be missed so much on this channel.💛

@JoaquinMarcosM: I’m not just going to miss @JeffStelling as a football pundit. We need more people on TV like him. My Saturdays really aren’t going to be the same. My living room will have an empty space. God bless you Jeff.

@Stevemillerpafc:
Soccer Saturday will never be the same without Jeff
Running the show

@alisonsheena1:  Well said @JeffStelling . The lack of mental health services in this country is a source of national shame.

@Holte121971: Jeff really is the only reason I watch sky sports on a Saturday afternoon. He has proved time and time again that he is not only the best in the business but he is a very decent human being. Sky will be a poorer place without him.

@EddieConroy2: More of this….. well done Jeff Stelling.

Eating disorders helplines

NHS

Eating Disorders

B-eat (Beat Eating Disorders) 

England Helpline: 0808 801 0677

Scotland Helpline: 0808 801 0432

Wales Helpline: 0808 801 0433

Northern Ireland Helpline: 0808 801 0434

One-to-one web chat 

www.b-eat.co.uk

Support Groups

Do men get eating disorders?

Provides advice and support and information for anyone with an eating disorder inc anorexia and bulimia nervosa. Enter your postcode in the HelpFinder to see what eating disorder support is available in your area.

Anorexia and Bulimia Care

www.anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk

Contact Us

Offers support to anyone affected by eating disorders. Hosts an online community for anybody supporting someone with an eating disorder.

National Centre for Eating Disorders

Support Line: 0845 838 2040

www.eating-disorders.org.uk

Eating Disorders in males

Everything you need about eating disorders treatment, information and professional training in the help & treatment of eating disorders.  Eating disorders, such as compulsive overeating, binge eating, anorexia, bulimia, obesity, orthorexia & failed dieting affect people in every walk of life. There are millions of men and women suffering from chaotic eating disorders, perhaps harbouring persistent weight problems and obsessed with food and weight who need help to beat their symptoms.

SEED

Advice Line: 01482 718130

www.seedeatingdisorders.org.uk

We are a group of ordinary people with first hand experience of eating disorders, who make a difference to those people whose lives are blighted by this devastating illness. All services can be accessed through self-referral. We provide support and services for people living in Hull East Riding and Out of Area.

Overeaters Anonymous

www.oagb.org.uk  

Overeaters Anonymous is a fellowship of individuals who, through shared experience, strength and hope are recovering from compulsive overeating. Welcomes everyone who wants to stop eating compulsively.

Weight Concern

www.weightconcern.org.uk

The charity is committed to developing and researching new treatments for obesity. It is also working to increase the availability of the successful treatments it has pioneered in the UK via self-help programmes, self-help support groups and family based childhood obesity treatment.

British Nutrition Foundation

www.nutrition.org.uk

Promotes the wellbeing of society through the impartial interpretation and effective dissemination of scientifically based knowledge and advice on the relationship between diet, physical activity and health.

Recover Your Life

www.recoveryourlife.com

One of the biggest and best Self Harm Support Communities on the Internet, offers help on a variety of topics surrounding self harm, including self injury, eating disorders, mental health issues, abuse and bullying, as well as drugs and alcohol and first aid.

YoungMinds

Parent’s Information Service: 0808 802 5544 

www.youngminds.org.uk

Supporting your child with eating problems

National charity committed to improving the mental health of all children and young people. Services include the Parents’ Information Service, which is a free confidential helpline for any adult with concerns information about the mental health of a child or young person.

Family Lives

Helpline: 0808 800 2222 (24 hours)

www.parentlineplus.org.uk

Eating Disorders

Offers support to anyone parenting or helping to raise children, from newborn babies to young adults. There are free telephone and email helplines, parenting courses and information leaflets. The website offers lots of advice, real-life stories and relevant news as well as a helpful A-Z of related topics.

ChildLine

Helpline: 0800 11 11

www.childline.org.uk

Eating Problems

ChildLine is a counselling service for children and young people.  You can contact ChildLine in these ways:  You can phone  on 0800 1111, send us an email, have a 1-2-1 chat with us, send a message to Ask Sam and you can post messages to the ChildLine message boards.  You can contact ChildLine.

The Mix

Helpline: 0808 808 4994

www.themix.org.uk

Eating disorders explained

Life’s tough, we know that. It can throw a lot your way and make it hard to know what the hell to do with it all. So, welcome to The Mix. Whether you’re 13, 25, or any age in between, we’re here to take on the embarrassing problems, weird questions, and please-don’t-make-me-say-it-out-loud thoughts you have. We give you the information and support you need to deal with it all. Because you can. Because you’re awesome. We’ll connect you to experts and your peers who’ll give you the support and tools you need to take on any challenge you’re facing – for everything from homelessness to finding a job, from money to mental health, from break-ups to drugs. We’re a free and confidential multi-channel service. That means that you choose how you access our support, without the worry of anyone else finding out. Whether it be through our articles and video content online or our phone, email, peer to peer and counselling services – we put the control in your hands. You can even volunteer with us too.

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