Ever thought about volunteering in your local community or overseas? Chances are you will reap just as much (if not more) than you sow!
Research shows a multitude of benefits for the volunteer. It may help to boost self-esteem and helps people feel that they are making a difference in the world, both of which may protect against low moods. It can be especially good for the elderly because it can protect them from the hazards of retirement, physical decline and inactivity.
Other benefits to volunteering include:
- better physical health especially in old age
- less self-absorption
- reduced mortality
- improved integration into the community and
- an improved sense of self-validation by being able to help others
If that’s not enough to convince you, consider that volunteering can also increase self-confidence and overall life satisfaction, and there’s research to suggest that volunteering can keep young kids ‘out of trouble’.
With all this considered - what are you waiting for? Your health (and your community) needs you!
References available on request