Helping Others Can Heal Your Brain

The greatest show in Las Vegas history must be the recent outpouring of the best of humanity. The courage shown by professional rescuers and regular citizens reaching out to help, and even risking their lives to do so, leaves many of us wondering what would we do and what can we do to help others. Making a positive difference in someone’s life doesn’t take a life-threatening effort. Simple kindnesses can go a long way for someone struggling. I was lucky enough to receive such help this summer. I blew out my ankle. Really blew it out. As I enjoyed a walk with my husband, on slightly uneven pavement my foot slid off the side of my two-inch platform sandal. Three bones broke and the ankle dislocated. A 30-something couple immediately rushed to help as I sat crying and cursing on the ground, ankle deformed. The woman shielded me with her bike from any traffic in the alley close to where I crumpled. Her husband ran to get ice. My husband ran to get the car several blocks away. This caring couple stayed with me while he was gone. I asked the woman if she was in the medical field, as she seemed so calm talking with me in my panicked state. She was not. The iceman cometh and brought immediate relief. They reassuringly talked with me of the time a car hit him and noted how he was OK now. Another young stranger warmly put his hand on my back, asking if there was anything he could do. I thanked him, but declined. His smile and thoughtfulness remains etched in my mind, even though he...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: General Grief and Loss Inspiration & Hope Mental Health and Wellness Motivation and Inspiration Peer Support Personal Trauma Appreciation First Responders Gratitude healing Human connection Recovery Selflessness Source Type: blogs