Empathy for others is associated with higher levels of happiness

Interestingly, the association between compassion and a reduction in negative emotions such as stress or sadness was less pronounced. Nevertheless, even here there was a positive trend: more compassionate people tended to have weaker negative experiences.

From a scientific point of view, compassion is defined as the ability to recognize another person’s suffering, respond emotionally to it, and be motivated to help. This can be expressed in serious support in a difficult situation, as well as in simple everyday actions — attention, participation, or a little help.

It is especially important that the revealed relationship between compassion and well-being did not depend on the age, gender, or religious beliefs of the study participants. The data suggest that the effect is universal and manifests itself in a wide variety of groups of people. At the same time, the authors emphasize that long-term and well-controlled studies are still needed to better understand the cause-and-effect mechanisms.

According to the first author of the work, Majlinda Zhnunik, the data obtained are important for public health. Since psychological well-being is linked to longevity, physical health, and the quality of social connections, developing compassion can be an effective tool for preventing and supporting mental health.

The researchers note that empathy can and should be developed through educational programs, social initiatives, school projects, or digital courses. A number of studies have also studied the influence of special practices, such as meditation, on the development of compassion, and they have shown a positive effect. It has been confirmed that compassion not only accompanies well-being, but can also actively enhance it.

As a result, the study highlights a simple but important point: caring for others can be one of the keys to a happier and more fulfilling life.