Give and share

Do you feel able to give something to a friend, or even a stranger? This doesn’t have to be money. Sometimes being kind, asking someone how they are, or helping with a task can mean much more! A simple thank you or a smile to someone else can be enough to help you and the other person lift their mood. You could even volunteer your time or join a community group.

Belonging to part of a community can promote a greater sense of happiness. Research has shown that committing an act of kindness once a week, over a period of six weeks, is associated with an increase in feelings of positive wellbeing. Here are some suggestions to help you get started.

• Volunteering is one way of giving back your time to others. It can also be a way of learning a new skill and meeting new like-minded people.
• Give a friend or relative a few minutes of your time, you could arrange to meet up with them or give them a call and check in on how they’re doing.
• If you’re worried about someone you know, send them a text just to know you’re there. Here’s a link that may help starting those conversations.
• Offer to fetch the shopping, or look after the children of a neighbour so they can have some time to relax.
• Share your favourite recipe with your friends, or cook it and invite them over for tea!
• Raise money for a good cause – supporting others can make you feel valued.
• Donate some unwanted clothing to your local charity shop.
• Offer your seat to someone who may need it more than you.
• Give way to another driver, or someone in the queue.
• Offer to help someone with heavy bags.
• Tell someone “well done”, “I really appreciate you” or “thank you”
• If you can, donate blood at your local blood donor centre.