Acts of kindness – how they can benefit our wellbeing

Acts of kindness have the power to brighten someone's day and strengthen relationships.  They don't have to be grand gestures, and sometimes the simplest things can have the most impact such as a smile or a thoughtful comment.

Kindness doesn’t just benefit others - it can also bring fulfilment and joy to the giver as well as providing numerous health benefits including:

Boosting happiness

Helping others triggers the release of dopamine and serotonin, the brain’s feel-good chemicals, leading to increased happiness.

Reducing stress

Kindness lowers cortisol levels, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Improving mental health

Research shows that acts of kindness can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improving overall wellbeing.

Strengthens social connections

Kindness fosters improved relationships, creating a sense of belonging and community.

Being kind is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to create a positive impact on others and yourself.  Here are a few ideas to help you spread a little positivity:

Help a stranger

Holding the door open, offering your seat on public transport, or helping someone carry their bags.

Give your time for a friend or family member

Offer to help with chores.

Give compliments

Genuine praise can boost someone’s confidence.

Show empathy

Try to understand how others feel and offer support when needed.

Listen actively

Give people your full attention and make them feel heard.

Send a card

Show you are thinking of someone by sending a handwritten note in the post.

Support local businesses

Shopping locally is good for the community.  Leaving a positive review can also help small businesses.

Pick up litter in your neighbourhood

This shows you care about your surroundings and those around you.

 

Volunteer for a local charity or community group

Giving your time to support a good cause not only benefits the community but also improves your overall wellbeing.

The act of volunteering is celebrated and promoted during the annual Volunteers Week which is taking place from 2-8 June 2025.  Launched in 1984, this initiative provides organisations and communities a platform to thank current and past volunteers for their efforts.

There are some key advantage to volunteering:

Strengthening the community

Volunteering brings people together, helping to build a friendly, inclusive and connected community.

Providing essential services

Many volunteer programmes fill gaps in resources, ensuring communities receive the necessary support.

Enriching relationships

By bringing people together, volunteering cultivates a shared sense of responsibility and enriches relationships across diverse backgrounds.

Promoting social inclusion

Volunteering helps combat loneliness and isolation, particularly amongst marginalized groups, fostering a sense of belonging.

Improving local infrastructure

Many volunteer-driven initiatives lead to better community facilities and encourage other positive schemes such as environmental conservation.

Volunteers play a key role in the services offered by CADAS in our commitment to reduce harmful addiction across Cumbria.   We are currently looking for volunteers in our Barrow, Kendal and Carlisle locations and across West Cumbria. 

CADAS has extensive experience of supporting anyone who feels their addiction is problematic. If you’re turning to alcohol or substance use and are worried about this, Change can help. 

Change is an on-demand paid for service with no waiting list that offers 1-1 support with an expert, qualified coach.  Complete our registration form or request a call back to find out more.