The Importance of Empathy for Mental Health
Did you know that promoting empathy within both individuals and communities can result in better mental health outcomes? Last time, we dived into the intricate workings of the neural circuits and brain regions that make up our capacity for compassion. Today, we’re touching on just how fundamental empathy is when it comes to good mental health and a happier society.
Understanding Where Empathy Comes from in the Brain
When we see others suffering, whether it be on a small or large scale, it can sometimes feel like it’s happening to us. Some of us might even define colloquially ourselves as “empaths”. But what does it mean? And where does it come from?
Well, empathy is a complex aspect of human psychology that is underpinned by intricate brain mechanisms. In the next couple of posts, we’ll be breaking down the neurological basis of empathy into bitesize chunks.