What are YOUR views on religion?

I’m writing an unbiased article exploring the reasons why religion is part of our society and I’d like to hear your experiences and views. Has religion helped you in any way? If you are atheist, what made you not believe in deities? Please do not discriminate or leave hateful comments, I am interested in views and opinions, not debate. Please also be aware that I may use some of your answers in full or in part in my article. Thanks everyone!

P.S I’m still figuring out my own beliefs so this might also be helpful to me personally!