Random acts of kindness. Pay it forward. We’ve all heard these trending terms, and neuroscience has confirmed we do often feel happier when we perform acts of kindness. Research reveals humans have an intrinsic, perhaps intuitive, drive to help others.
Yet a recent poll suggests only 25 percent of Americans believe we’re living in a kind society. More than half said they believe kindness has deteriorated in the past 10 years.
While formal acts such as making a donation to charity or performing organizational volunteer work are certainly acts of kindness, simpler actions, such as lending an empathic ear to another or bringing a warm meal to a friend or neighbor, can also be seen as acts of kindness and also boost our own happiness.
A recent study investigated how people felt after observing or performing acts of kindness for seven consecutive days. The research discovered that being kind to ourselves and others, including strangers, boosts our happiness levels. And neuroscience has more research to support these feelings. Neuros cientific evidence has proven that kindness changes the brain, impacts our bodies favorably, and may even help reduce symptoms of depression.
Kindness leads to connections with others.
one is immune from the human condition. Everyone has challenges and struggles, most often not readily apparent to others.
Being kind to others offers multiple possibilities to start or develop a social connection with someone. Kind acts can strengthen friendships, and numerous research has shown social connections are linked to improved mood. And while b eing kind may boost your mood, research has also shown that being in a good mood can make you more kind, suggesting this reciprocal link may lead to even more giving.
eing kind to ourselves is not only as important, but perhaps even more important than extending kindness to others. Being kind to yourself may be the first step in learning to extend kindness to others. In fact, r esearchers have found that being kind not only to others, but also to ourselves, leads to increased feelings of happiness.
So, practice kindness often. Pay attention to the impact kind acts have not only on others but on yourself as well. You may find that it not only boosts your happiness but makes you feel better both mentally and physically in the long run.
kindness and mental health Recent Posts See All Building Strength Through Therapy for Emotional Resilience Therapy for Overcoming Loneliness: Finding Connection and Healing The Benefits of Therapy Animals: The Role of Therapy Animals in Mental Health Never miss a new blog post Email * Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter.
SUBSCRIBE NOW Hi, I'm Shelley Bonanno, licensed therapist based in Shelby Township, Michigan and relationship columnist for Macomb Now Magazine.
As a dedicated therapist, I’m passionate about helping people find clarity, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. With a compassionate approach, I aim to support each individual’s unique journey to healing and growth.
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