As a psychologist, I see a consistent pattern: giving—especially in small, meaningful ways—has a powerful impact on mental health. And it benefits both the giver and the receiver.

Generosity isn’t about grand gestures. It’s checking on a friend, helping a neighbor, volunteering for an hour, or surprising someone with a small kindness. These moments matter more than we think.

Why Giving Feels Good

Research shows that generosity activates the brain’s reward centers, releasing feel-good chemicals that boost mood and connection. Even planning to be more generous increases happiness.

Small acts of kindness have been shown to reduce depression, anxiety, and loneliness by shifting our focus outward and strengthening our sense of belonging.

Spending on Others Makes Us Happier

Studies repeatedly find that people feel happier when they spend money on others—even just a few dollars—than when they spend it on themselves. It’s not about the amount; it’s about the meaning.

Volunteering Improves Well-Being

Volunteering provides purpose, community, and structure—all important for mental health. Research links volunteering with lower depression, higher life satisfaction, and better overall well-being across all ages.

Kindness Helps the Receiver Too

Being on the receiving end of generosity reduces loneliness, increases feelings of worth, and builds trust. Kindness also creates a ripple effect: people who receive care are more likely to pass it on.

Healthy Giving Includes Boundaries

Generosity should feel supportive, not draining. Sustainable giving aligns with your values and respects your emotional capacity.

Simple Ways to Practice Generosity

One small helpful action each day
A tiny monthly “kindness budget”
Volunteering an hour or two a month
Offering what you can rather than overextending
A weekly reflection on giving and gratitude

Small acts make a real difference.

A Chance to Put This Into Practice

This season, Wellesley Counseling & Wellness is proud to partner with the Wonderfund of Massachusetts, a nonprofit supporting more than 30,000 children involved with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF).

Each child creates a holiday wish list—often asking for simple essentials like warm clothes, books, toys, or art supplies. For many, these gifts are the only ones they’ll receive.

The Wonderfund’s mission is simple and powerful: Make sure every child’s list is fulfilled.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back, this is a beautiful place to start. Even one small gift can help a child feel seen and valued during a difficult time of year. Gifts can be dropped off at WCW or givers can join us in clearing the list on Wonderfund’s website.

Learn more here: https://www.wonderfundma.org and view gift lists here: Wonderfund Amazon List.

You can look to "clear the list" of the organization's Amazon list, or you can register to fulfill a child's wishlist. Simple ways to give back.

Together, our small acts of generosity can bring hope, dignity, and joy to children across Massachusetts.

We’re also excited to support the Natick Service Council this season with an in-office food drive and online wish lists for easy giving. If you'd like to help local families in need, you can donate in person at our office or choose an item from the wish lists below:

Target Wishlist: https://bit.ly/NSCTARGWISH
Amazon Wishlist: https://a.co/dlYznRr

How Generosity Supports Mental Health