Altruism & Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Altruism, the act of selflessly helping others, has been a favorite of social psychology researchers for decades. There is a body of research showing that people who engage in acts of altruism have some psychological benefits, like feeling a deeper sense of connection to one's family and community. Based on this, Takeo Fujiwara, a researcher at the Harvard School of Public Heath, examined the protective mental health function that altruism may have.

The Study

Fukiwara examined a set of data that was representative of the greater U.S. population, and selected a subset of people that were diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depression. Altruism was measured by the responses given to questionnaire items such as “would you collect money for heart or cancer research if asked to do so?” and “would you volunteer time or money for the social causes that you support?” Results showed that for people with GAD, altruistic behavior was shown to be a protective factor against more serious anxiety, albeit a weak one.

What This Means

First, it is important to note that there are some significant limitations to the study, and that it was simply done as one piece of work in what could be a new line of research. However, what this could mean is that for people with GAD, being involved in some socially positive work, organizations, or behaviors can have some benefit. Fujiwara gives some theoretical basis for why this is beneficial, citing some research into evolutionary psychology that believes GAD is related to being worried about the safety for kin, so doing some pro-social activities can help reduce this stress.

I would also add an explanation that wasn't stated. Specifically, that anxiety is often a way that we experience concern for parts of our lives. Some people with GAD may be experiencing the tension of thinking they need to be perfect to be loved, respected, and successful. Thus, engaging in altruistic acts can make one feel important, useful, and good about him/herself, which can help reduce, at least temporarily, this chronic worry.

_Source:

Fujiwara, T. (2007). The role of altruistic behavior in generalized anxiety disorder and major depression among adults in the US. Journal of Affective Disorders, 101, 219-225.