There’s a good chance you’re not seeing a lot of sunlight these days. As a result, you could experience a drop in serotonin, which lowers one’s overall sense of wellbeing. When this occurs, our natural reaction is to hibernate and seek solitude. While this can be appropriate and even enjoyable at times, excessive amounts can worsen one’s mood in the long run. It’s important to maintain our sense of purpose and connection to others and an effective way to do this is through giving.

I know this recommendation can feel uninteresting at first. Many of us are in positions where we are already giving a lot of ourselves. If you’ve felt a lack of appreciation this past year, you may not feel a lot of motivation to be charitable. However, it can be satisfying to give in a novel way to someone whom may be extremely appreciative. Giving and receiving can affect our brains in similar ways.

There are a number of local opportunities for giving where you can make an impact. Columbus Turkey Trot is an active way to give and feel more connected. Winter Donation Drive sponsored by the Employee Resource Center is a more concrete giving opportunity. If those recommendations sound too demanding, consider how to make your presence a gift to others. This can be as simple as acknowledging those in your presence. The impact this can have on others is not to be underestimated. Give in a way that feels natural to you.

If you’d like to speak with a mental health professional about more ways to increase your sense of connectedness, EAP is here for you. You can call 800.678.6265 or email EAP@osumc.edu. If you’d like to learn more about volunteering opportunities through OSU, Besa has many options for you.