Hurtling towards winter can leave many with seasonal blues but a new survey has found helping others can be the key to happiness.
Energy drink firm BOOST, who commissioned the survey, has teamed up with charity Re-engage to launch their Christmas Call Companion volunteer drive, where younger Brits can support lonely older people over the festive period, via companionship and weekly phone calls.
Anjna Mistry, Brand Leader at BOOST, commented, “It’s clear from the research that Brits are searching for small ways to get a boost of positivity, and nothing gives you a boost like helping others.”
Tom Oakes, Head of Growth at Re-engage added: “Many of the lonely older people we support say they love talking to someone who is younger.
“They can offer their own extensive life experience while learning about latest trends and fashions. It keeps them in touch with the world, which is vital for them.”
The study also found that 35% believe happiness is infectious with more than half claiming a smile can lift their mood and 30% believing happy people are more attractive, than miserable ones.
According to the survey the nation feels down an average of nine days a month with money worries, the weather, getting old, health concerns and being trapped in the same routine the main pressure points.
But 90% have a range of ways to give themselves an instant boost, with over half finding joy in the smallest of things.
The Top 25 ways found to improve mood in the study are:
• A walk in nature
• A hug from a loved one
• Sunny skies
• A smile from a stranger
• Getting into bed with clean sheets
• Watching TV with your favourite snacks
• A slice of cake
• The perfect cup of tea
• Being sent a funny meme
• Having your favourite meal for dinner
• A perfectly tidy room
• Your favourite film on TV
• A Sunday roast with all the trimmings
• Talking to family on the phone
• Hearing your favourite song on the radio
• Receiving a random act of kindness
• Seeing someone with uncontrollable giggles
• Being greeted by your dog
• Your child saying they had a good day
• Cooking while listening to music
• An open fire in a pub
• Finishing your to-do list
• Getting all your washing done
• Helping others in need
• A glass of wine after a long day
BOOST & Re-engage’s Christmas Call Companion campaign is a telephone befriending service specifically designed for older people who are feeling lonely or in need of companionship over the festive period and is open to volunteers of all ages.
Those interested in becoming a Christmas Call Companion for Re-engage can find more details and sign up at https://reengage.org.uk/join-a-group/christmas-call-companions/