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This week’s medical mystery explores the phenomona known as "The Helpers' High." We hope to see a widespread outbreak in Central Indiana during the WFYI pledge drive.

The helper's high happens when someone donates time or money. A results study of over 3000 volunteers was published in the book "The Healing Power of Doing Good."

The majority of volunteers reported feeling happier and more energetic right after volunteering. They said they felt a rush of euphoria and a burst of energy. Something similar to a runner’s high.

And those were only the short term health benefits. Ninety percent of the 3,000 the volunteers said their good deeds acted as an antidote to stress, chronic pain and insomnia.

Another study done at Harvard looked at what researchers there dubbed the "Mother Theresa effect." Students watching videos of the late Mother Theresa helping the poor in Calcutta actually had their immune system response kick in.

Now, we can’t guarantee that you’ll be able to fight off colds, sleep better and be healthier and happier. But really, making a pledge couldn’t hurt.

You’ll be helping your public radio station, and it just might make you feel good.

Additional Resources:

• Learn more about Luks' and Payne's study on "helper's high."

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