Every November, National Philanthropy Day reminds us that giving is not only about writing a check—it’s about generosity in all its forms. While charitable giving and donations keep nonprofits running, true philanthropy extends beyond money. It is expressed through time, compassion, volunteering, and even simple acts of kindness.

As the holiday season approaches, many people struggle with the holiday blues. Feelings of loneliness, stress, or sadness can make the season feel heavy rather than joyful. But giving back creates a powerful feedback loop that uplifts both the giver and the receiver. Whether it’s a donation, a kind word, or helping at a food bank, the act of contributing restores a sense of purpose and belonging.

This blog explores the psychology, science, and philosophy of giving—how acts of service improve our own well-being—and shares accessible ways to practice philanthropy this holiday season.

Why does altruism feel good?

Altruism is when we help someone else, even if it costs us something—whether that’s time, energy, or money. At its core, it’s about putting others’ needs first, not because we have to, but because we want to make their lives a little better.

And the cool thing is, science shows it actually feels good to give. When we do something kind, our brain flips on its built-in reward system, releasing those feel-good chemicals that create what researchers call the “helper’s high.” In plain terms, giving gives us a natural boost.

Research shows that when we donate, volunteer, or even just offer emotional support, our mood improves and we feel more satisfied with life overall. That’s because compassion and empathy aren’t just lofty ideas—they’re wired into who we are. From an evolutionary standpoint, humans (and even other species) survive better when they look out for one another.

 

What are the mental health benefits of philanthropy?

Helping others isn’t just good for them—it’s surprisingly good for you too. Here are a few ways it boosts your mental health:

Less stress and better sleep

Acts of generosity calm the body’s stress response, lowering cortisol and even improving sleep quality.

 

Mood boosts

Helping others can protect against mood struggles like seasonal affective disorder or even major depressive disorder. Small acts of kindness can ease fatigue, irritability, and those heavy feelings of sadness.

 

Fighting loneliness

Volunteering is a great way to feel more connected and beat back the sense of social isolation.

 

Building resilience

Research shows that giving helps us develop stronger coping skills and makes it easier to view challenges with hope.

 

Whether you’re looking at brain scans or long-term studies, the conclusion is simple: giving is good for your mental health.

How to give without spending money

Philanthropy isn’t just about writing checks. Giving back can take so many different forms, and often the most meaningful ones don’t cost a dime. Some people share their wealth with a charitable organization or nonprofit, while others give their time, skills, or simply their empathy.

Here are a few ways to practice philanthropy beyond the checkbook:

Volunteering

Spend a few hours at a food bank, donate blood, or look for local opportunities through sites like VolunteerMatch.

 

Virtual volunteering

Short on time or can’t get out easily? There are plenty of online options, from tutoring students to helping nonprofits with digital projects.

 

Community service

Pick up trash at a local park, mentor a teen, or support emergency management efforts. These small acts ripple outward in powerful ways.

 

Everyday kindness

A kind word, a quick phone call to check in on a friend, or practicing forgiveness might seem small—but the emotional impact can be huge.

 

When we step into these moments of giving, we discover a deeper sense of purpose and connection. Even modest actions can remind us that we’re part of something bigger—and that giving sustains us just as much as it helps others.

Practical ways to give this holiday season

Here are practical, accessible ways to give during the holidays:

• Offer gratitude and words of kindness to friends, caregivers, or teachers. 
• Share resources with neighbors, such as food or clothing. 
• Mentor a student, intern, or young professional. 
• Help with errands for an elderly parent or neighbor. 
• Volunteer virtually if your schedule is tight—many nonprofits need online support. 
• Donate to a nonprofit organization or charitable foundation, even in small amounts. 

These acts may seem simple, but collectively they build community, confidence, and joy. They also remind us that giving is about connection, not wealth.

How giving can help with the holiday blues

For many, the holidays bring not joy, but holiday blues. Advertisements and marketing bombard us with images of perfect family gatherings and expensive gifts, which can amplify feelings of sadness or inadequacy. Stress management becomes harder when financial strain, loneliness, or family conflict collide.

Engaging in service is a powerful coping strategy. Rather than focusing on what we lack, giving shifts our attention outward. Volunteering, donating, or simply offering kindness provides a sense of purpose that counters feelings of emptiness. Research shows that people who give during stressful seasons experience lower anxiety and greater emotional stability.

Giving becomes not just an act of charity but also a form of therapy—a way to manage mood disorders and restore a sense of connection.

When helping others isn’t enough to help yourself

While giving provides comfort and purpose, it is not a cure for mental illness. 

It may be time to reach out to a mental health professional for support if you or someone you love may be experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Persistent sadness or emptiness that doesn’t go away, even when life seems “fine” 
• Intense anxiety, worry, or panic that interferes with daily activities 
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies, relationships, or work 
• Difficulty sleeping (too much or too little) or constant fatigue 
• Changes in appetite or weight that don’t have a clear cause 
• Trouble concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things 
• Irritability, frustration, or mood swings that feel hard to control 
• Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities 
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness 
• Thoughts of harming yourself or that life isn’t worth living 

At Pacific Health Group, we believe in compassionate care, tailored to suit your unique needs.

We offer:

• Individual therapy to help you manage mood, anxiety, and daily stressors. 
• Family therapy to strengthen relationships and foster connection. 
• Couples counseling to build healthier communication and intimacy. 
• Telehealth appointments for convenient access to a mental health professional. 

We accept insurance and provide confidential, personalized care. If giving isn’t enough to ease your holiday blues or mood disorder, know that support is available—and you don’t have to carry the weight alone. Call us at 1-877-811-1217 or visit www.mypacifichealth.com for more information.