The Benefits of Random Acts of Kindness, Altruism, & Compassion

By Amy Tilley, PsyD
Chief Clinical Officer, Desert Star ARC

 

Have you ever been the recipient of a random act of kindness? Ever had your meal paid for at a restaurant by a stranger, someone treated you to a cup of coffee for no reason at all? Has a neighbor mowed your lawn, shoveled your driveway, or brought you dinner when you were feeling ill? How did that make you feel…grateful, overjoyed, a sense of peace and warmth? If you were on the receiving end of one of these selfless gestures, your mental health likely got a positive boost!

There are many mental health benefits of giving and receiving random acts of kindness and being altruistic. Merriam-Webster defines altruism as “unselfish regard for or devotion to the welfare of others” (merriam-webster.com). People who are altruistic and practice kindness toward others do not expect anything in return. Many times, the act is done anonymously, purely out of the goodness of one’s heart. They simply do things for the benefit of the recipient.

Psychiatry.org reports that performing random acts of kindness can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and give both the giver and receiver a greater sense of social connection and belonging. When we engage in an act directed toward another person, it takes the attention off ourselves, which may be a good temporary distraction. It can also improve self-esteem in both parties and decrease stress. The giver may see the value of the action and the receiver may see value in the gesture from the giver.

 

Kindness has psychological and biological benefits

According to www.randomactsofkindness.org, witnessing kindness in action increases oxytocin, which helps in lowering blood pressure and improving our heart health, and produces serotonin, the feel good chemical in your brain to increase happiness. Who doesn’t want to reap those benefits?  It also can give us more energy and a greater sense of self-worth. Volunteering can be a great way to practice kindness and help keep a structure to your week. Volunteering can add to your lifespan, too! Giving back to your community is good for your physical, emotional, and mental health.

Being compassionate has its benefits, for you and others. Loving others and yourself is equally important in fostering a sense of well-being, improving your mental health, and reducing a sense of loneliness and isolation. These long winter months can take a toll on us, and connecting with others can help combat negative emotions we may experience. Practicing self-compassion can take many forms: having a daily devotion or meditation time, setting healthy boundaries, speaking up for yourself in both professional and personal relationships, and asking for help. The more we practice self-compassion, the more we can be compassionate to others…it is a win-win situation!

During this month, sometimes known as the love month, be intentional about practicing random acts of kindness, being altruistic and compassionate…to yourself and others. Write an old fashioned hand written letter—and mail it! Pay it forward the next time you are in your favorite coffee shop, take your best friend to dinner and surprise them by paying for their meal. Visit a neighbor who may not have family in town…spending time with that person may be just the psychological boost they need. Volunteer at a local food bank or shelter. You may reap the mental health benefits, too!

 

Amy Tilley and has 20 years in the mental health and addiction recovery field. Her clinical interests include working with young adults and adults diagnosed with co-occurring conditions.

https://www.desertstarARC.com or call  520-638-6000