In amongst all the turmoil coronavirus has created something is shining through; something that’s strengthening communities and family ties and making us a better workmate, friend and neighbour.
That something is kindness, and over the past eight weeks the power of a kind act has helped us all cope with the stresses and strains created by our current situation.
From volunteering to help those in need to simply sending a thoughtful message to a friend, kindness is creating a sense of belonging never felt before and it’s bringing mental health and wellbeing benefits too.
That’s why Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from today until May 24th, aims to inspire us all to perform acts of kindness. Why? Because #KindnessMatters.
"You can always, always give something, even if it is only kindness"
Anne Frank
To help create a kinder society and support our mental health, the Mental Health Foundation, organisers of the week, have provided some simple and easy ways that we can all be kind this week – and beyond.
Random acts of kindness include:
- Telling a family member how much you love and appreciate them.
- Arranging a virtual catch up with someone you know or have a virtual lunch with a colleague.
- Making a cup of tea, lunch or dinner – or all three - for someone you live with.
- Helping with a household chore at home.
- Lending your ear – call a colleague and ask how they are.
- Giving praise to a friend, family member of colleague for something they’ve done well.
- Donating to a foodbank or charity.
- Offering to skill share with a friend via video call – you could teach guitar, dance etc.
- Sending a surprise to a friend or family member through the post
- Offering to do shopping for an elderly family member or neighbour
By being kind and sharing compassion for each other we will, as our Chief Executive Kenneth Lawrie has said, “come through this and be stronger than before”.
Related articles