April – National Volunteer Month & Volunteer Week
Every year, during April we celebrate National Volunteer Month & Volunteer Week in certain countries, when people recognize and celebrate the contributions of volunteers in their communities, non only individuals but also the many volunteer-run organizations. It is also a time to encourage more people to get involved and make a difference.
By using our time, skills and energy to be of service to others, we not only help people but also receive numerous personal benefits, specifically in terms of mental health. Research has shown that 2-3 hours per week (or about 100 hours per year) can provide the most benefits as long as the activity is rewarding and something to look forward to rather than another item on our lengthy to-do list.
In honor of Volunteer Month and Volunteer Week, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of volunteering for mental health as a different way to motivate and inspire people to make a difference.
Volunteering is an activity that can benefit both the community and the individual. It is an opportunity to give back and make a positive impact, but it is also a chance to improve one’s own mental health. The benefits of volunteering for mental health are numerous and diverse, from reducing stress to increasing social support. In this article, we’ll explore the many ways that volunteering can benefit mental health and provide detailed examples for each one.
Table of content:
- Improved Mood and Reduced Stress
- Increased Social Support
- Enhanced Sense of Purpose
- Increased Physical Activity
- Improved Cognitive Functioning
- Reduced Risk of Dementia
- Increased Empathy and Compassion
Mental Health Benefits of Volunteering
One of the most significant benefits of volunteering for mental health is its ability to improve mood and reduce stress. When you volunteer, you engage in activities that are meaningful and purposeful, which can lead to a greater sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. This can help counteract feelings of anxiety and depression. Additionally, volunteering often involves socializing with others, which can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
For example, volunteering at a local animal shelter can provide a sense of purpose and satisfaction. Walking dogs or playing with cats can help reduce stress and improve mood. Similarly, volunteering at a soup kitchen or food bank can provide a sense of accomplishment and connection with others, which can improve overall well-being.
According to a study published in the Journal of Health Psychology, volunteers reported higher levels of happiness, life satisfaction, and overall well-being than non-volunteers. Another study from the University of Exeter found that volunteers had lower levels of depression and higher levels of well-being than non-volunteers.
Another significant benefit of volunteering for mental health is its ability to increase social support. When you volunteer, you often meet new people and form relationships with others who share similar values and interests. This can help provide a sense of belonging and social support, which can be particularly beneficial for those who may be socially isolated.
For example, volunteering at a community garden can provide an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and form new friendships. Volunteering at a local charity event can also provide a sense of community and belonging. These connections can be important for overall mental health and well-being.
According to a study published in the Journal of Gerontology, volunteering is associated with increased social support and greater social connectedness. Another study found that volunteering was associated with increased social capital, which refers to the resources that are available to individuals and communities through their social networks.
Volunteering can also help enhance your sense of purpose. When you volunteer, you are contributing to a cause or organization that you believe in, which can help give your life greater meaning and significance. This can be particularly important for those who may be struggling to find a sense of purpose in their lives.
For example, volunteering at a local park or nature preserve can provide a sense of purpose and connection to the environment. Volunteering at a nonprofit organization can also provide a sense of meaning and purpose by contributing to a cause that aligns with your values.
According to a study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, volunteers reported a greater sense of purpose in life than non-volunteers. Another study found that volunteering was associated with a greater sense of personal growth and development.
Volunteering is a great way to increase physical activity, which can have significant benefits for mental health. Physical activity is known to improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase overall well-being. Many volunteer opportunities involve physical activity, such as cleaning up a local park or participating in a charity walk.
For example, volunteering at a community garden can involve physical activity such as planting, weeding, and harvesting produce. This can be a great way to get outdoors and engage in light to moderate exercise, which has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Similarly, volunteering at a local animal shelter may involve walking dogs, which can provide an opportunity for both physical activity and socialization.
According to a study published in the Journal of Aging and Health, older adults who volunteered had higher levels of physical activity and lower levels of disability than non-volunteers. Another study found that volunteering was associated with increased physical activity among middle-aged and older adults.
Volunteering can also have benefits for cognitive functioning, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. Engaging in activities that are mentally stimulating has been shown to improve cognitive functioning, and volunteering can provide opportunities for such activities.
For example, volunteering at a museum or library may involve providing tours or assisting with research, which can be mentally stimulating. Similarly, volunteering at a local school or tutoring program can provide opportunities to engage in activities that require problem-solving and critical thinking.
According to a study published in the Journals of Gerontology, volunteers had higher cognitive functioning and were less likely to experience cognitive decline than non-volunteers. Another study found that volunteering was associated with increased brain function among older adults.
Volunteering has also been associated with a reduced risk of dementia, a condition characterized by a decline in cognitive functioning. Engaging in activities that are mentally stimulating and socially engaging can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
For example, volunteering at a local senior center or nursing home can provide opportunities for social engagement and activities that are mentally stimulating. Similarly, volunteering at a museum or art gallery can provide opportunities for intellectual stimulation.
According to a study published in the Journal of Gerontology, volunteering was associated with a reduced risk of dementia among older adults. Another study found that volunteering was associated with a reduced risk of cognitive impairment among middle-aged and older adults.
Volunteering can also help increase empathy and compassion, which can have significant benefits for mental health. Engaging in activities that involve helping others can lead to greater feelings of empathy and compassion, which can improve relationships with others and overall well-being.
For example, volunteering at a homeless shelter or soup kitchen can provide opportunities to connect with and help those in need. Similarly, volunteering at a crisis helpline can provide opportunities to support and assist individuals who are going through difficult times.
According to a study published in the Journal of Social Psychology, volunteers reported higher levels of empathy and compassion than non-volunteers. Another study found that volunteering was associated with increased prosocial behavior, which refers to actions that benefit others.
In conclusion, volunteering for mental health is beneficial for both the volunteer and the community.
As Volunteer Week approaches in April, it is a great time to consider volunteering and its impact on mental health. This month consider reaching out to a local organization that aligns with your interests and values to find volunteer opportunities.
Volunteering has numerous benefits for mental health, individuals can make a positive impact on their own mental health as well as the well-being of others, while also contributing to the betterment of their community. It’s important to remember that volunteering doesn’t have to be a major time commitment or require special skills – even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference.
To ensure the most benefits, individuals should choose volunteer opportunities that align with their interests and values. It’s also important to approach volunteering with a positive attitude and open mind. Volunteering during Volunteer Week in April can be a great way to get started and connect with local organizations.
Statistics show that the benefits of volunteering for mental health are significant, but unfortunately, only a small percentage of individuals volunteer on a regular basis. By increasing awareness of the mental health benefits of volunteering and encouraging more individuals to get involved, we can create a healthier and more connected society. By working together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of others and ourselves while showing how volunteering can improve mental health.
If you are an organization looking to create a Volunteer Recruitment Program, please check out our other article ”Volunteer Recruitment: A Guide For Nonprofits” by clicking here.
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References:
National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Mental Health Information. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/index.shtml
Corporation for National and Community Service. (2021). Volunteering and Civic Life in America. https://www.nationalservice.gov/serve/via
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Volunteering and Public Health. https://www.cdc.gov/Features/volunteering/index.html
Schwartz, C. E., Sendor, M., & Helping Hands: A Community Service Orientation. (1999). Journal of Health Psychology, 4(2), 211–221. https://doi.org/10.1177/135910539900400206
Musick, M. A., & Wilson, J. (2003). Volunteering and depression: The role of psychological and social resources in different age groups. Social Science & Medicine, 56(2), 259–269. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0277-9536(02)00028-6
Omoto, A. M., & Snyder, M. (2002). Considerations of Community: The Context and Process of Volunteerism. American Behavioral Scientist, 45(5), 846–867. https://doi.org/10.1177/000276402236679
Thoits, P. A. (2012). Volunteer Work and Well-Being. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 53(1), 115–131. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022146510395592