It’s not really a surprise that December is National Giving Month in the United States. With the holidays, part of the merriment and cheer is inherent in the season, or so it feels. But what if the actual giving creates the season and makes us smile?

Research shows that the giver of a gift experiences just as many benefits as the receiver, creating a satisfying experience for both. Here are four ways that giving positively impacts the giver:

Boosts happiness and optimism

Spending money on someone else doesn’t seem like it would do much inside the brain, but the simple act has been proven with several studies that buying a gift for someone (without stressing too much about it) promotes happiness by stimulating the pleasure part of the brain, per the American Psychological Association.

Moreover, generosity is contagious; by giving, you inspire others to follow suit, spreading kindness and reinforcing a positive community spirit.

Builds relationships

When the pleasure part of the brain is stimulated, it releases oxytocin also known as the “cuddle hormone,” which “signals trust, safety and connection,” per APA.

“Part of the uniqueness of the reward activation around gift-giving compared to something like receiving an award or winning money is that because it is social it also activates pathways in the brain that release oxytocin,” said Dr. Emiliana Simon-Thomas, who is the science director at the Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley.

People you build strong relationships with also create a good support system during difficult times.

Reduces stress and depression while fostering gratitude

Feeling stressed out and maybe experiencing some depression can make it hard to want to give back or serve another but Dr. Charles Brown at Akron Children’s in Ohio, a child and adolescent psychiatrist said it can make all the difference.

“The stress and anxiety of everyday life can affect us all differently,” Brown said. “It’s the way we cope with that stress that dictates its impact on us. One healthy way of coping is through service because it allows us to step outside of our own challenging experience and enrich the experience of others.”

Being able to step outside of yourself and recognize the things you have creates a sense of deeper gratitude and appreciation for life to combat future stress and depression.

Creates a sense of purpose and improves self-esteem

Charitable giving can especially make you part of a bigger community and purpose. Every charity has a good cause donors can contribute to which brings fulfillment and satisfaction, per Donor’s Trust. 

Having purpose contributes to an improved self-outlook because it empowers the individual to change the lives of others.