Random Acts of Kindness: The Antidote to Holiday Depression?

For some of us, the chaos of the holidays and the stress of family and friend obligations can trigger depression or anxiety throughout the month.

It’s sometimes hard to find balance in a season of excess and high expectations, leaving many of us feeling down and empty.  Studies have found that finding activities and interests that offer purpose and meaning, as well as performing random acts of kindness, without the expectation of reciprocity or acknowledgement, can reduce depressive symptoms and improve overall well-being.

According research, acts of kindness and feelings of compassion toward others can stimulate reward areas in the brain, strengthening positive emotion and reduce depression.   Additionally, when we give to others, we tend to feel more happier and joyful, which bleeds into others parts of our life and relationships.

This holiday season, practice daily random acts of kindness for a mental health boost and a feel-good feeling.

Some examples of “giving” this holiday season can include:

• Extending a hand or offering to help someone who you see struggling with their bags or packages
• Volunteering at a local toy drive or food bank to help those less fortunate
• Offering to babysit a neighbor’s child while they go out
• Paying for the coffee of the person behind you in the drive-thru at Starbucks.
• Inviting a neighbor, friend or acquaintance over to celebrate the holidays so they don’t have to spend it alone.
• Making a plate of dinner for a senior citizen in your neighborhood or offering to drive them to their family’s house.

Please join Clarity Clinic NWI for daily random acts of kindness suggestions on our Facebook page to cultivate compassion and connections during the holidays.

Erin Swinson, LMHCA, LPC
Therapist
Clarity Clinic