Holiday Blues (instead of greens)? Volunteer (locally)

Tis’ the season to be JOLLY! Yes, jolly, aka cheerful, happy, joyful. Not feeling it?

Last week, U.S. News and World Report published an article quoting the American Psychological Association who said that 38 percent of people said their stress level increases during the holidays. They also reported that 53 percent of people feel financially stressed by holiday spending, even though more than half of the 1,000 respondents had created spending budgets.

Here at HamletHub, we believe that there is no better way to beat the holiday blues that by serving others. And experts agree, “Volunteering gives you the opportunity to think of something and someone else other than being swallowed up by your own overwhelmingly depressed, negative thoughts,” says PsychologyToday. “When you volunteer your time you have to pull yourself together, get off of the couch and out of the house,” they add.

And, the benefits may stretch beyond your emotional persona. Harvard Medical School says, “A growing body of evidence suggests that people who give their time to others might also be rewarded with better physical health—including lower blood pressure and a longer lifespan.”

Bring joy to others this holiday season and it may indeed return to you. Connecticut 211 us a great resource for volunteer opportunities in Connecticut.

Click here for food-related volunteer opportunities (soup kitchens, etc) near Milford.

Click here to help families in need.