How Can You Stay Happy And Help Others Through The Pandemic?
Just a few short weeks ago, no one could have expected the situation we find ourselves in now. With the UK, like many other nations, now facing another month or more of lockdown, life is unrecognisable for many. Schools, restaurants, bars and gyms are shut and everyone apart from key workers must stay home. Many working parents are trying to juggle childcare and their jobs. Others have seen their livelihoods disappear overnight. It’s an extremely uncertain time, and likely to be anxious for most people. But there’s one thing you can do to make the situation just a little bit better.
The Happiness Solution
Lots of scientific studies in recent times have discovered that the true secret to being a happier person lies in helping others. And never has this been more important than in the current Covid-19 pandemic. Giving our time connects us to others in times of isolation, builds stronger communities that we feel more a part of and builds a healthier society for all. And science says that helping others is the key to being happier and healthier ourselves – something we could all do with right now.
How Do I Help Out During The Pandemic?
Check On Your Neighbours – One very simple thing can be to join or create an informal neighbour group. It’s a great way to make sure that if there are any vulnerable or elderly people near you, they can access support. These groups can cover a wide range of tasks, from fetching essential shopping, to sorting out administration tasks such as a waste collection or a Motability car scheme. It can be as simple as calling for a chat. These groups connect people and will make you feel less alone while helping others around you.
Avoid Creating Waste – When the pandemic first started to hit our shores, a lot of shops found their shelves stripped bare as some people panic bought food items, antibacterial cleaning products, toilet roll and hand sanitiser. Food waste is a serious issue in the UK and it’s now more important than ever not to waste food. If you have too many canned goods, donate them to your local food bank. Get creative with leftovers and use your freezer to keep meals fresh for longer – even items like milk and bread can be frozen to extend their lifespan.
Sign Up To Donate Blood – As coronavirus cases have continued to rise, the country has experienced a drop in blood donors. You can sign up easily at blood.co.uk to give blood, which could be lifesaving. Blood donation is a really straightforward procedure, and donation centres are following very strict infection control procedures, so you won’t be at risk while you do your good deed.
Thank Key Workers – There is a whole raft of people risking themselves every day to keep the country running. From supermarket assistant to postal workers, police and firefighters, carers and teachers as well as medical staff. Showing your gratitude can make all the difference. Simple things like leaving some chocolate bars or soft drinks in a basket outside for couriers and postal staff, or arranging delivery of pizzas to the local police or fire station can show your thanks. It’s the little things which will make a hard day for someone a little easier.
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