Giving back, whether with monetary gifts or your time, has been shown to increase your health and happiness! Helping others is one of the biggest natural antidepressants, but this year it might be more challenging to reach out to your favorite charity or loved ones due to COVID-19 restrictions. Below are some ideas to reap the health benefits of giving while staying safe.
1. Write Letters
Reach out via snail mail! Write to family and friends that you won’t be able to see in person this year, or you can join the charity Letters Against Isolation and write letters to seniors at centers across the country.
2. Donate Creatively
Many of us are spending more time at home, which can result in stuff we no longer need piling up. Stretch your donation muscles and find unique ways to give your items a new purpose. Donate used instruments to a school music program, give away books to your local library, or set up a little free library in your neighborhood. For clothes, consider programs like Dress for Success and One Warm Coat.
3. Give Directly
Giving directly to organizations that support the causes you care about is a great way to get giving and can usually be done online! Consider giving to Media Power Youth. Your gift will help keep kids connected through educational experiences and provide remote learning support for educators and families. You can donate to Media Power Youth here.
No matter how you choose to give this holiday season, remember that a little goes a long way! Giving not only affects those receiving your contributions but also can improve your own health, happiness, and feelings of connectedness. Happy Holidays!