On August 19th, the world stops to honour those who face incredible risks to help others. At Well Workshop Psychological Services, we believe that World Humanitarian Day isn't just for people on the front lines, it’s a call for all of us to examine what it means to lead a life of purpose.

Currently, 339 million people worldwide require humanitarian assistance. From the 51.2 million forcibly displaced by conflict to the 768 million without safe water, the scale of human suffering can feel overwhelming. But at the heart of this day is a simple, powerful philosophy: the synergy between being good and doing good.

What does it mean to "Be Good"?

Being good is an internal state. It is the psychological foundation of empathy, integrity, and resilience.

Empathy in Action: It’s about feeling the pain of others, just as women humanitarians in Gaza continue their work while deeply feeling the pain of the women and children they help.
Good Intentions: Sometimes, when resources are scarce, aid workers are "left only with [their] good intentions". Being good means holding onto your humanity even when your "heart is fatigued" and your "will is broken".
Integrity: It is the commitment to uphold international humanitarian law and protect the most vulnerable, ensuring that every person is treated with the dignity they deserve.

What does it mean to "Do Good"?

If being good is the spark, doing good is the flame. It is the external action that creates tangible change.

Providing Essentials: Doing good means ensuring that the 800 women who die daily from maternal causes receive care, or that 10 million menstrual pads reach those in need in conflict zones.
Protecting the Helpers: We "do good" by demanding better protection for the health and humanitarian workers who faced over 1,989 violent incidents in a single year.
Supporting Local Heroes: 90% of humanitarian victims are local actors. Doing good means "standing with those caught in conflict" and supporting local, women-led organizations.

Why the Balance Matters

You cannot effectively do good without first being good. Without a foundation of empathy and mental well-being, the "soul no more desires anything," leading to burnout and fatigue. Conversely, being a "good person" is a quiet virtue until it is translated into action that saves lives.

How You Can Honour the Day:

Educate: Share a stat about the 97 million people affected by natural disasters to raise awareness.
Advocate: Use your voice to call for safe humanitarian spaces for those working in sectors like health, education, and protection.
Donate: Support organizations like Doctors of the World or Action Against Hunger that provide vital aid in dangerous environments.
Self-Care: Remember that you cannot pour from an empty cup. To help others, you must preserve your own "safety and wellbeing".

This August 19th, let's commit to the difficult mission of helping those in need. Whether through a grand gesture or a small act of kindness, remember: Being good is the mindset; doing good is the legacy.

References

Action Against Hunger Canada, Doctors of the World Canada, & Humanity & Inclusion Canada. (2023, August 19). World Humanitarian Day: Humanity & Inclusion Canada, Doctors of the World Canada and Action Against Hunger Canada call for better protection of humanitarian workers to meet growing needs in the field [Joint Press Release].

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). August 19 is World Humanitarian Day [Infographic].

GBV Sub-Cluster Palestine. (2024, August 19). Statement from women humanitarians in Gaza: World Humanitarian Day.

Doing Good vs. Being Good: A World Humanitarian Day Reflection