'Something wonderful is about to happen'
'Something wonderful is about to happen'
The eighth one
Hi, hey, hello–I’m getting my mind right
I’m lucky that this eighth one lands during Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues, reducing stigma, and promoting the importance of mental well-being. For me, and I’m sure for many others, I started taking my mental health seriously during the height of the pandemic and even (finally) began seeing a therapist and tackling my issues head-on.
One powerful method I’ve found to combat my feelings of loneliness and anxiety is through giving back and helping others. This not only helps the people I’m reaching out to, but it also does wonders for my mental health. As Proverbs 11:25 says, "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." This is why I started Smile On Me, to smile on others and invest in their lives, sharing the same peace and happiness that I have been blessed with.
So, let me share four ways that giving back and investing in others can boost your mental health and help build a more resilient and connected community:
🎉 Enhanced Mood and Happiness: Acts of kindness and generosity trigger the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and oxytocin. This "helper's high" can lead to a sustained improvement in mood and overall happiness.
😌Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Engaging in altruistic activities can lower stress levels by shifting focus away from personal worries and onto helping others. This perspective shift can provide a sense of calm and reduce feelings of anxiety.
🏆Increased Sense of Purpose and Fulfillment: Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Contributing to the well-being of others can enhance self-worth and create a feeling of fulfillment and accomplishment.
👯♂️Strengthened Social Connections: Volunteering and community service offer opportunities to meet new people and build supportive relationships. These social connections can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
So, let's keep the spirit of giving alive in our hearts and actions. By reaching out to others, we not only brighten their day but also find solace and purpose in our own lives. Let's build a community where kindness is our currency, and everyone's well-being is a shared priority. After all, it's the simple acts of generosity that truly make the world a better place.
—you’ll notice I use the word ‘so’ quite often. you’ll also most likely notice bad grammar and the overuse of commas and punctuation in my writing—so yea