Holidays are typically a time of joy and celebration with family and friends, but for some it’s anything but the most wonderful time of year. Depression can occur at any time, but stress and anxiety during the holiday months may cause some people to experience a lack of fulfillment or a sense of loneliness from the loss of loved ones.

Although depression can make you distance yourself from people, participating in random acts of kindness can bring a smile to your heart. Doing good deeds for others can prevent negative thoughts, promote feelings of accomplishment and happiness, and make a positive impact on both you and the recipient.

Practicing kindness can be as simple as:
 

• Holding a door open for a stranger
• Giving someone a compliment
• Texting or calling an old friend to say “hi”
• Lending a hand to a co-worker who needs help with a project
• Volunteering at a shelter
• Donating books, clothes or food

Your act of kindness, regardless how small, will serve as a way to lessen stress and anxiety and boost self-esteem during the crazy holiday season. If you are experiencing depression this holiday season, please call (855) 425-1777 (toll-free) to schedule an appointment or speak with a representative.