Nextdoor has partnered with leading researchers on a first-of-its-kind global study looking into how small acts of kindness can reduce loneliness in neighbourhoods over a four-week period.
Participants were asked to perform (COVID-19 safe) acts of kindness such as:
Have regular contact with a neighbour
Show care and concern for a neighbour
Help a neighbour
Provide advice or helpful information to a neighbour
Contribute to a larger neighbourhood effort, action, or activity
Other
Knowing as few as six neighbours reduces the likelihood of feeling lonely and is linked to lowering depression, social anxiety, and financial concerns related to COVID-19.
Even the smallest actions, such as saying hello to a neighbour, increased neighbourhood unity.
Performing small acts of kindness for neighbours reduces the likelihood of feeling lonely and socially isolated.
What can you do to reduce loneliness in your community? Here are some ideas:
Check-in with your neighbour over a virtual cup of coffee
Go for a socially distanced walk with your neighbour
Help your neighbour out by shoveling their driveway
Recommend your favourite book to your neighbour and then have a virtual chat about it
Join a group and connect with neighbours to share your ideas. The possibilities nearby are endless...
Organize a neighbourhood food drive
Dr. Lim is a leading expert from Australia who specialises in the impact of loneliness on mental health.
Dr. Holt-Lunstad is a leading expert from the United States who specialises in social isolation and the influence of social relationships on long-term health.
Dr. Qualter is a leading expert from the United Kingdom who specialises in child and adolescent loneliness.
Has your neighbour done an act of kindness for you lately? Let us know: