Stell: The Power of Volunteerism: Benefits to Mental Health

Serving as a volunteer is a selfless act of contributing one’s time, energy, and skills for the betterment of others without expecting financial gain. While the focus is often on the external impact volunteers have on communities, a growing body of research highlights the benefits to volunteers themselves, particularly when it comes to their mental health. It turns out that volunteering is also an act of self-care.

The Connection Between Volunteerism and Mental Health

Volunteering has been shown to have profound positive effects on mental well-being. Engaging in activities that help others provides a sense of purpose, fosters social connections, and promotes a feeling of belonging—all of which are crucial for mental health. In an increasingly fast-paced, digital, and often isolating world, volunteering offers a meaningful way to reconnect with one’s community and combat feelings of loneliness and depression which are ever rising in the legal profession.

Key Mental Health Benefits of Volunteerism

Reduction in Stress and Anxiety. When people focus on helping others, their attention shifts away from the personal, allowing for a more positive perspective on life. The National Institutes of Health found that volunteering activities could reduce the risk of stress-related health problems and lower cortisol levels, a hormone closely associated with stress. While stress is unavoidable, taking time to do something for someone else can be as effective at reducing stress as other coping strategies such as exercise or meditation.

Combating Depression. Volunteering reduces the risk of depression, particularly in older adults. The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) reports that individuals who volunteer have lower rates of depression compared to those who do not. Volunteering provides meaningful activities that counteract feelings of purposelessness, which can contribute to depression. A report by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) revealed that people who volunteer for at least 100 hours per year are 28% less likely to feel hopeless or depressed than those who do not volunteer. The Journal of Gerontology showed that older adults who volunteered were 27% less likely to develop depression and 30% less likely to suffer from cognitive decline.

Boosting Happiness and Life Satisfaction. Numerous studies affirm that volunteers experience greater life satisfaction and happiness. A report from Harvard Health Publications highlights that the simple act of helping others releases dopamine in the brain, often referred to as the “helper’s high.” This natural mood enhancer boosts feelings of euphoria, reducing feelings of sadness or hopelessness. The Journal of Happiness Studies published a 2021 report from the U.K. citing evidence that while happy people are often those most likely to volunteer, that the reverse is also true, volunteering makes people happier. Respondents who volunteered for at least one month also reported having better mental health than those who did not volunteer.  Those who volunteered monthly were 7% happier than those who didn’t, and those who volunteered weekly were 16% happier.

Increasing Social Connection. Social isolation is a known risk factor for mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Volunteering combats loneliness by fostering a sense of community and belonging. In a world where people may feel more disconnected due to technology or busy schedules, volunteering provides an avenue for meaningful, face-to-face interactions. A 2020 study published in the BMC Public Health Journal demonstrated that people who volunteered regularly had stronger social networks, which led to lower levels of loneliness and improved psychological well-being.

Enhancing Self-Esteem and Confidence. Volunteering offers individuals a chance to learn new skills, build confidence, and experience the pride of accomplishment. It is especially impactful for individuals who may feel they lack purpose or value in their personal or professional lives. Knowing that their efforts are making a difference can significantly boost self-esteem. For young adults, volunteering can also help develop a sense of identity and self-worth.

Provides a Sense of Purpose. In recruiting volunteers for The Mayo Clinic, they cite research showing that when volunteers give of their time and talent, they experience a sense of purpose, as well as greater increase in life satisfaction. Whether volunteers are serving as greeters, using their craft skills to make prayer shawls or baby blankets, or offering pet therapy, these everyday but essential activities are meaningful. Volunteering can help you reassess priorities and examine your life from a different perspective.

Volunteering as a Preventative Measure for Mental Health

Beyond treating mental health issues, volunteerism can serve as a preventative measure. Those who volunteer experience resilience and cope with life’s challenges more effectively. People who regularly engage in volunteer activities often report a greater ability to handle adversity, which is crucial for maintaining good mental health over the long term.

How to Get Involved in Volunteering

If you’re interested in reaping the mental health benefits of volunteering, there are countless opportunities to explore. Local community centers, schools, hospitals, animal shelters, and non-profit organizations are often in need of volunteers. Online platforms like VolunteerMatch or Idealist can help match you with causes that align with your interests and skills. Involvement with your local bar association is also a great way to volunteer to serve the profession or to partner with those in your community through activities such as pro bono efforts, clothing or food drives.

Conclusion

Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Those who give not only enrich the lives of those they serve but also bolster their own mental health, leading to a happier, more fulfilled life. Volunteering is a powerful tool for nurturing one’s mental health. With its ability to reduce stress, combat depression, boost happiness, and build social connections, volunteering is a meaningful activity that enhances both individual well-being and societal health. As studies continue to show, the positive impact of volunteerism on mental health is undeniable, making it a win-win for everyone involved.

Camille Stell is the President of Lawyers Mutual Consulting & Services and the co-author of “RESPECT – An Insight to Attorney Compensation Plans”. The second edition is available from Amazon beginning in October 2024. Continue this conversation by contacting Camille at camille@lawyersmutualconsulting.com or 919.677.8900.