Helping Others, Helping Yourself: The Wellness Benefits of Volunteering

 

Helping Others, Helping Yourself: the Wellness Benefits of Volunteering

Giving your time to help others doesn’t just make a difference in your community; it can transform your life in unexpected ways. Volunteering isn’t only about lending a helping hand; it’s a powerful act that can boost your mental well-being, improve your physical health, and bring a deep sense of purpose and connection. Whatever form of volunteering you choose, every act of service creates a ripple effect, and often, the person most positively affected is you. In this post, we’ll explore the many personal and health benefits of volunteering, and why giving back might just be one of the best things you can do for yourself.

The Personal and Health Benefits of Volunteering

1. Improved Mental Health and Reduced Stress

Volunteering has been linked to lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Engaging in meaningful activities and connecting with others can release “feel-good” hormones like dopamine and oxytocin, which promote emotional well-being. According to a study published in BMC Public Health, people who volunteer regularly report higher life satisfaction and lower rates of depression than those who don’t.

2. Boosted Physical Health and Longevity

It might surprise you, but volunteering can also have tangible benefits for your physical health. A study from Carnegie Mellon University found that adults over age 50 who volunteered regularly were less likely to develop high blood pressure, a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Some research even suggests that people who volunteer may live longer, thanks to increased social interaction and physical activity.

3. Increased Sense of Purpose

Having a sense of purpose is closely tied to overall happiness and resilience, especially as we age. Volunteering gives people a reason to get up in the morning,  it provides structure, meaning, and a chance to contribute to something bigger than ourselves. This is especially valuable for retirees, empty-nesters, or anyone going through a life transition.

4. Greater Social Connection and Reduced Isolation

Loneliness can take a serious toll on both mental and physical health. Volunteering is a natural way to build social bonds, meet like-minded people, and feel a part of a community. Whether you’re working on a team project or simply chatting with someone you’re helping, these moments of connection can make a big difference.

5. Personal Growth and Skill Building

Beyond the health benefits, volunteering can help you develop new skills, boost your confidence, and even open doors professionally. From leadership and communication to problem-solving and empathy, the personal growth that comes with service can be life-changing.

6. Better Cognitive Function and Brain Health

Volunteering can help keep your brain active and engaged, which may reduce the risk of cognitive decline as you age. Activities that involve planning, problem-solving, and interacting with others stimulate brain function. Studies have shown that older adults who volunteer regularly tend to have better memory and cognitive performance.

7. Improved Self-Esteem and Confidence

Helping others can give you a strong sense of accomplishment. Whether it’s seeing the direct impact of your actions or being appreciated by others, volunteering reinforces your sense of worth. This boost in self-esteem can be beneficial during periods of low confidence or self-doubt.

8. Enhanced Emotional Resilience

Facing life’s challenges is easier when you’ve built emotional strength and coping skills. Volunteering often puts people in situations where they must be patient, empathetic, and adaptive, all of which build emotional resilience and make you more capable of handling stress and setbacks in everyday life.

9. Healthier Lifestyle Habits

Volunteers often report being more physically active and adopting healthier behaviors. When you're part of a community-oriented group, you may be more motivated to take care of your health to continue contributing. Plus, seeing others in need can inspire gratitude and mindfulness, which promote healthier choices.

10. Natural Mood Booster

Even just a few hours of volunteering can lead to a noticeable improvement in mood. Giving activates reward centers in the brain, leading to what's often called the "helper’s high." This natural emotional lift is both immediate and long-lasting, especially when volunteering becomes a consistent part of your routine.

Volunteering is more than a generous act, it's a powerful way to nourish your mind, body, and spirit. From improved health and deeper social connections to a stronger sense of purpose, the benefits of giving your time and energy are both far-reaching and deeply personal. No matter how much time you feel you can provide, it can benefit the cause you decide to support, and you'll likely gain more than you give. So why wait? Find a local organization, community group, or cause that speaks to you, and take the first step toward making a difference in someone else’s life and your own along the way. 

Of course, our purpose for writing this blog on the Our Farm website is to recruit volunteers for the Farm! There are so many things to do, from helping with the construction of the High Tunnel Greenhouse to gardening care for the existing raised beds. The horses that are used for equine-assisted therapy also need volunteers to help care for them. We also organize Compassion Fatigue Retreats, which are designed to provide a break and support for those who care for others. These retreats will need volunteers, as well as ongoing fundraising events. If you are considering volunteering some of your time and energy, consider Our Farm first. We provide multilevel support and compassion for the communities of Abbeville, Greenwood, and the Lakelands. 

Written and researched by: Beth Nelson, BSN, RN: Nurse, writer, and volunteer for Our Farm, Abbeville, South Carolina.