When it comes to self-care and improving your mental health, learning a new language isn’t generally the first thing that comes to mind. Nor is it the second, or third, or fourth.
Yet, studying the interplay of mental health and language learning has provided some incredibly interesting discoveries over the past few years, which warrants a much closer look at learning a second language as a means of boosting your mental state.
This week, guest writer John Ross explores the benefits of learning a new language for your mental health, and how it can boost empathy, confidence and self-esteem.
A hidden benefit of learning a new language
While most of the research and discussion to date has focused on the ability of language learning to minimise long term dementia, there is a secondary, yet equally important cognitive health benefit of learning a new language that I believe does not receive nearly enough attention: combatting anxiety and depression.
You read that correctly. Learning another language has the ability to directly mitigate feelings of social anxiety and helps to manage mild depression.
Learning a new language breeds empathy
Several studies conducted on bilingualism has shown that individuals who speak two or more languages are likely to be more empathetic than the average monolingual person. The reason for this is rather simple.
Research has shown that bilinguals are more sensitive to cultural issues and norms, and thus, can develop a deeper understanding of others’ thoughts and feelings. They are also forced to reconcile divergent cultural values, leading to a greater appreciation of complex social and emotional issues.
This ability to process these issues more maturely helps to combat feelings of anxiety. Empathy is a critical component of prosocial behaviors and interactions, granting those who possess it the potential for rich and fulfilling social lives.
Thus, the equation goes like this: learning a new language breeds empathy, and the more empathetic you are, the more you exercise your adaptability and social skills.
Distraction from negative thoughts and feelings
A common theme of social anxiety is feeling trapped in a zone of comfort and routine. As such, mental health practitioners often recommend breaking free of comfort zones to overcome those feelings of anxiety.
When in your comfort zone, and not engaging with anything new to excite or challenge you, negative thoughts and feelings can run awry. As uncomfortable as it may feel, stepping into the unknown once in a while can lead to empowered outcomes, and there is no better way to step out of your comfort zone on your own terms than through learning a new language.
Learning a second language forces to you to shift your typical thought patterns and think differently. Your mind has the ability to change and adapt, and learning a language enables you to critically think through issues from different perspectives.
In fact, some studies on language learning have noted a sensation experienced by participants of feeling like a different person when speaking their new language. They feel as if they have an alter ego or another side that grants them a sense of belonging in a different culture.
When this sensation is experienced as you slip into your second language, it is an excellent means of diverting your attention away from day-to-day thought processes and cycles, as well as any feelings of anxiety.
Language learning boosts confidence and self-esteem
The final way in which learning a second language can reduce feelings of anxiety is the boost in confidence you’ll notice over time.
Studies have shown that language learning boosts an individual’s self-esteem, which can then trickle down to influence other aspects of their life. Confidence and self-esteem have long been shown to stimulate growth in one’s social and professional life, which can directly help to combat feelings of social anxiety.
When you feel confident and mentally strong in your own abilities, you’ll start to create a positive feedback loop in your day. One positive action can lead to another, and you can create a self-reinforcing loop of positive habits that helps to reduce any negative thoughts and anxious feelings.
Which language piques your interest?
Learning a new language can mitigate feelings of anxiety and improve your mental outlook in a multitude of ways. From boosted levels of confidence, to newfound empathy, to direct distraction from negative, self-reinforcing thought processes, learning a second language offers immense mental health benefits. The only real question is which language to learn.
John Ross is the founder of Test Prep Insight, an online education company that aims to improve learning outcomes and better prepare students for exams through innovative teaching methods.