March 20, 2023

6 Benefits of Learning Another Language

In today’s fast-paced and technological world, people from different backgrounds, ethnicities and languages are interacting now more than ever before. What used to take weeks to communicate via letter can now be accomplished in mere minutes through a text message.

This means if you want to keep up with the world today, learning another language could be a great first step. Not only can learning a second language have a multitude of personal benefits in your life, but it can also have a profound impact on your relationships with the people around you. There’s no doubt about it: If you want to live a more knowledgeable, cultural and altruistic lifestyle, then learning another language has big benefits in store.

1. Boost Brain Power

You might already know this, but learning another language significantly boosts brain power. A language has a completely new set of intricate rules, systems and lexis. Navigating these structures makes your brain cope with complexity and absorb new patterns. As you continue to grow in the language and endeavor to communicate, you develop key learning skills such as cognitive thinking and problem-solving.

2. Improve Memory

Your brain is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it will be. Learning a language not only requires you to become familiar with rules and vocabulary, but it also makes you work harder to remember that knowledge and apply it on the spot. This might be why studies have shown bilingual people to be better at remembering shopping lists, names and directions. While you workout your brain, your memory grows stronger, too.

3. Build Multitasking Skills

Studying a second language requires your brain to switch back and forth between two systems of speech, writing and structure. You constantly open one filing cabinet, then the other, then back again. One study from Pennsylvania State University determined this “juggling” skill makes bilingual speakers excellent multitaskers, because they can easily switch between structures. As you learn a new language, you might discover your multitasking skills improve.

4. Impress Employers

If there’s one way to get ahead in the job market, it’s learning another language. Bilingual employees are in hot demand because of their ability to communicate with multiple job markets. Bilingualism is a valuable skill set employers look for, so by learning a second language, you can significantly increase your chance of getting a call back. Not to mention, learning a new language shows your dedication and motivation to develop new skills.

5. Gain a New Perspective

By learning a second language, you have more opportunities to absorb content from new sources. For instance, travel to a country that speaks the language and practice. Or, watch television shows and read books in the language. Or, check in your community to meet neighbors near you who speak the language. All of these interactions allow you to gain new and different perspectives on life, which can strengthen your emotional wellbeing.

6. Meet More People

When you speak a second language, you have the opportunity to meet even more people! Get to know those around you who speak the language, volunteer with an organization that prioritizes the language, help native speakers learn your language… the list goes on. By learning another language, you broaden the scope of the people you can meet and positively influence. This provides opportunities to live a more altruistic life.

There are a multitude of both personal and relational benefits which come alongside learning a second language. If you’ve ever considered learning another language, keep these benefits in mind as you dive into the world of possibilities.

We Are Here to Answer Your Questions

What does your organization do?

EmpathyHQ provides counseling to individuals, groups, and families and empowers communities to live authentically and thrive. We break down barriers to accessing care, offering comprehensive and accessible mental health support on your journey to health and self-discovery. We are here to pave the way to a better you—and a better community.

With over 12,000 individuals benefiting from 100,000 hours of evidence-based mental health care and case management in the past four years alone, EmpathyHQ is making a tangible difference in the lives of Texans.

For a list of specific programs and services we provide, visit our Get Support section.

Icon - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

How can I get involved?

We welcome individuals who are passionate about mental health support and increasing access to resources. If you care about these issues, we'd love to have you join us. We support remote and in-person volunteer opportunities.

Visit our Get Involved section to find out ways to learn more, donate, or volunteer.

Icon - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

If I were to donate funds, how is my money used?

We take our responsibility to our community and donors seriously, striving to ensure EmpathyHQ's long-term sustainability. Our funds are used to provide mental health services for clients in need.

Icon - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

What is your organization's privacy policy?

Our organization takes our privacy policy seriously and protects the safety of our supporters. We do not sell or otherwise disclose information about our clients, volunteers or supporters outside of our immediate organization. This policy has no exceptions. We do not sell or exchange your information with any other organizations—public, private or nonprofit. For more detailed information visit our Privacy Policy page.

Icon - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

Do I have to have custody agreement or court order for my child to receive services?

YES. If your child does not live with both biological parents and there is any court order or custody agreement in place, it must be on file. In order for a counselor to see your child, they must have obtained and reviewed the MOST RECENT custody agreement or court order, and any applicable part of a divorce decree that mentions custody. When federal or state statutes provide an exemption to secure consent of a parent or guardian prior to providing services to a minor, the counselor must follow the protocol set forth in such federal or state statutes. If documentation is not provided, your child cannot be seen by a counselor.

Icon - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates