The Best Degrees For People Who Want To Help Others Live A Happier Life

Food and water are basic needs, along with clothing and shelter, but humans also have more complex needs. One of these is happiness, which can have a huge impact on all areas of life. Unfortunately, there are various reasons why people can end up being unhappy. Some of these reasons can be physical, while others are mental. The following degrees can benefit students who are interested in helping others to live a better life. 

Why is Happiness Important?

There have been plenty of studies that have established the importance of happiness. Some of the most notable findings have been that happiness can improve relationships, enhance productivity, lead to improved health, boost your immune system, and can also lead to a longer lifespan (https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/if-you-are-happy-and-you-know-it-you-may-live-longer-2019101618020). 

What Causes Unhappiness?

There are various reasons why someone might feel unhappy, but these are some of the most common causes:

Substance Abuse - While alcohol and drugs can provide a short-term feeling of happiness, frequent overindulgence can lead to unhappiness. 

Lack of Exercise - Physical activity has been linked to happiness, so living a sedentary lifestyle can have a negative impact on happiness and overall well-being.

Poor Nutrition - Healthy eating is beneficial for happiness, so poor nutrition can have the opposite effect.

Insufficient Sleep - Our bodies need sleep for the brain to regulate itself properly. Without adequate sleep, this is not possible and, in turn, causes unhappiness.

Loneliness - Humans are social beings, and isolation can lead to boredom as well as loneliness, which are both causes of unhappiness.

Relationship Troubles - Relationships can be a cause for happiness, but if things go wrong and are not properly addressed, it can lead to depression and unhappiness.

Types of Degrees That Can Help Others Be Happier

Bachelor of Science in Nutrition

Studies have shown that healthy food choices can lead to happiness (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5719018/), and it is the job of nutritionists to counsel clients on their eating habits. Completing a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition degree can provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to help others lead healthier, happier lives. The degree covers various topics, concepts, values, research methods, and applications in the field of nutrition. In addition, completion of this degree can also help students to pursue certifications and credentials such as Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition, Certified Clinical Nutritionist, and Certified Dietary Manager.

Bachelor of Science in Substance Abuse Counseling

Unhappy people can often turn to the use of substances like alcohol and drugs to try and change their mood. This can lead to substance abuse and addiction, which in turn causes depression. In addition, substance abuse can also trigger brain changes and increase the likelihood of developing other mental health conditions. Bachelor of Science in Substance Abuse Counseling is a degree that can be completed online in less than three years and teaches students about the field as well as its graduate-level academic trajectories. Students are taught the fundamental skills necessary for individual counseling of clients with a substance abuse disorder and how to help them with strategies to prevent relapses while promoting recovery. Completing this degree can also help students meet the academic requirements for licensure in many states. 

Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

Regular exercise can improve your mood and happiness, and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree can prepare students for various careers in this field. This degree teaches students to understand what type of structural and functional changes occur on physiological, biochemical, and biomechanical levels during exercise. The coursework includes Clinical Kinesiology and Biomechanics, Motor Control and Learning, Clinical Exercise Physiology, Health Promotion Strategies, and more. Students who complete this type of degree can work in careers as varied as personal trainers, health coaches, exercise psychologists, physical therapy assistants, athletic trainers, healthcare consultants, and occupational therapists. 

Master of Marriage and Family Therapy

Relationship issues or family troubles are common causes of unhappiness. A Master of Marriage and Family Therapy degree can prepare students for licensure and a rewarding career helping others to overcome rough patches in their relationships and find their way back to happiness. This type of degree leads to becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist and prepares students to sit for the Marriage and Family Therapy National exam. It covers topics such as Family Theory, Systemic Diagnosis & Assessment, Addictive Disorders as well as Couples Therapy. Those who complete this degree and gain licensure often end up working at private and group practices, non-profit agencies, community mental health clinics, hospitals, or recovery centers.

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Becoming a physical therapist requires a lot of hard work and dedication, but it can be one of the most rewarding careers for those who want to improve the lives and happiness of others. After earning a bachelor’s degree in a related field, students must complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and then become licensed in the state where they want to practice. Maintaining licensure also requires physical therapists to meet the continuing education requirements of their state. In addition, some physical therapists opt to become board-certified clinical specialists, although this is entirely optional. Physical therapists can help people who suffer from chronic and acute pain, which in turn enables them to live happier lives. Physical therapy can also reduce the need for surgery and opioids, which are two things that can cause a lot of stress and unhappiness. 

Conclusion

Helping others to be happier with their lives is not only very rewarding but can also increase your own happiness. Careers focused on helping others can give you a sense of purpose, help to keep things in perspective, and boost your own self-esteem. Earning one of the degrees listed above can be a great step towards careers where you can make a living by bringing joy to others and living a more fulfilling life yourself.