Boost Your Mood by Giving Back

As we approach the holiday season, I’m reminded of how unique this time of year is. It’s a time when people often put their differences aside, come together for the greater good and give back to our communities.

Giving to others activates the brain's "reward centre," releasing feel-good chemicals like dopamine and endorphins, creating a "helper's high" that boosts happiness. It can also lower stress by reducing cortisol levels and shifting focus away from personal challenges, offering relief from worry.

Acts of generosity, like volunteering, provide perspective, foster gratitude, and remind us of our ability to make a positive difference. Additionally, giving fosters purpose and belonging, connecting us with shared values and combating loneliness, which can improve overall well-being and resilience.

GivingTuesday

I'm excited to share that Just Us, our charity arm, is participating in this year’s GivingTuesday campaign. GivingTuesday is a global movement that encourages people to give back to their communities through donations, volunteering, or acts of kindness.

Just Us has set an ambitious goal this year, and we need your help to achieve it. We’re aiming to raise $1,000 – the equivalent of 50 counselling sessions for people in need in our community. With just a $20 donation, you can help someone access one free counselling session. And by choosing to donate on a monthly basis, you can help even more people get the ongoing support they need.

On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, consider donating to Just Us. Your contribution will go towards helping Just Us provide free and low-cost counselling sessions to those in immediate need.

Regardless of who you choose to donate to or how you support, your mental health will get a boost, too. :)