Sometimes the smallest act of kindness, like checking in on a neighbor, can make a positive difference for everyone involved.
It’s true. Scientists believe that selfless, giving behavior releases endorphins in the brain, producing the positive feeling known as the “helper’s high.” Giving of one’s time, money or service can offer many health benefits to the giver in return, including greater self-esteem, less depression and lower levels of stress that last long after the initial act of giving.
But with the hustle and bustle of families’ daily schedules — from sports practice to music lessons to play dates — fitting in time to give or volunteer can be challenging.
“The stress and anxiety of everyday life can affect us all differently,” said Akron Children’s Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Charles Brown, DO. “It’s the way we cope with that stress that dictates its impact on us. One healthy way of coping is through service because it allows us to step outside of our own challenging experience and enrich the experience of others.”
Dr. Brown offers 10 ways to give back and spread cheer all year round. After all, carving out the time for service isn’t just a matter of kindness, it’s a matter of your health and happiness!
Dr. Charlie Brown is a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Akron Children’s.
10 ways to give back
Need some ideas? Here are several ways you and your family can give back and feel better for it in the process:
- Donate items to a food bank.
- Foster or adopt a pet.
- Draw pictures or send cards to a nursing home.
- Volunteer at your local soup kitchen, church or other charitable cause.
- Donate blood — and save a life — to the American Red Cross (for kids 16 years and older).
- Shop locally to support the local economy.
- Give higher tips at restaurants and salons (if your budget allows).
- Check-in on friends, neighbors or relatives who live alone.
- Teach parents or grandparents how to video chat or use social media to stay connected with family and friends.
- Offer words of encouragement to someone who seems to be having a hard time.
“As we celebrate a New Year, make it your family’s goal to find time to give more,” said Dr. Brown. “You’ll be glad you did.”
There are many opportunities to support Akron Children’s, too. If your family is interested in giving to Akron Children’s, learn about ways you can help.
