The Type of Giving That Builds Your Resilience
If you’re in a role that asks you to lead, care or guide, you already know what it means to give back. You do it every day—through your work, your care, your attention.
But here’s a truth we often overlook: not all giving builds us up. Giving from a place of overwhelm—when you’re depleted, under-supported, or disconnected—can actually accelerate burnout.
The good news? There’s a kind of giving that fills you up, too.
🧠 The Neuroscience
Research shows that helping others—when it comes from connection, not obligation—activates your brain’s reward centers (ventral striatum, VTA), lowers stress-related activity (anterior insula, amygdala), and increases long-term resilience.
Volunteering, mentoring, or simply being present for someone can offer real, measurable protection for your mental health.
This kind of giving doesn’t drain you—it grounds you. It makes you more resilient.
So this week, we’re not asking you to give more. We’re inviting you to give differently.
⚒️ Resilience Tools with CAMP:
Give from a place of choice, purpose, and connection.
Write down one way you already support someone.
Ask Yourself: does this feel connecting, or draining?
Choose one small act of giving this week that feels energizing—and own that choice.
✨ Bonus: Social support—both giving and receiving—has been shown to reduce inflammation, boost dopamine and serotonin, and even extend lifespan
When support is offered, let yourself receive it.
You deserve to feel full from within. The world needs you well.
