The Gift of Giving

Volunteering is a common form of altruism, in many instances altruistic acts can improve your quality of life in several ways and are absolutely worth the effort.   When you help other people, it activates the reward center in your brain and releases serotonin, dopamine and endorphins.   That is why many people often feel better after volunteering.  A strong correlation exists between the well-being, happiness, health, and longevity of people who are emotionally and behaviorally compassionate (so long as they’re not overwhelmed by helping tasks).

How does volunteering help your mental and physical health? 

Reduces Stress

Making a meaningful connection whether with adults, children or animals can take our mind off our own worries.   We divert our attention which helps improve our mood and feel less stressed.

Help Combats Anxiety and Depression

This is due, in part, to how the brain responds to volunteering.  When you volunteer, the brain produces hormones, such as dopamine, that boost your mood.   Volunteering increases motivation and provides a sense of accomplishment.   It distracts us from being critical particularly of ourselves.

Prevents Feelings of Isolations

Staying social is good for mental health especially as you age.  We extend our social network, maybe meet people from different walks of life that we would ordinarily ever meet.  The social connections often develop into friendships.

Increases Confidence

We may learn new skills and being in a different or a new environment can improve our confidence.

Provides a Sense of Purpose

Volunteering can provide meaning and purpose, beyond our normal day to day activity.  It can help us appreciate what we have and develop a sense of compassion for others

Ignites Passion

Volunteering can offer something different to our day-to-day activity.  It provides a worthwhile escape from our daily routine

It makes you Happy

A 2020 study by researchers in the UK found that volunteering increased participants happiness over time.  Research shows that feel good hormones and brain activities spike during voluntary activities

Longer lifespan

Volunteering has been lined with helping individuals live longe

Lower Blood Pressure

By increasing physical activity and lowering stress there is likely to be a positive impact on reducing blood pressure

There are many amazing oganisations doing incredible things for our communities perhaps now is the time to be part of it for ourselves too.