The Power of Giving Back: How Volunteering Benefits Mental Health

By Glory Adelowo 

In today's ever-changing world, where stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness are increasingly and alarmingly common, it is no news that a lot of people struggle with mental health, and volunteering — a very powerful and underrated tool — is looked down on to tackle mental health.

Volunteering is a powerful remedy to not only render help but also to tackle mental health struggles. Research has consistently shown that volunteering, an act of kindness and services, can greatly improve mental well-being. Engaging in altruistic activities to promote a cause or causes can lead to reduced stress, enhanced mood, and fill one with a greater sense of purpose. 

Volunteering is not about rendering help, supporting a cause, and giving out alone, it is a great tool for self-help also. Years of research has shown that there are a lot of benefits for volunteers themselves. There's no small act of volunteering. Whether it's mentoring a child, advocating for a cause, or participating in community projects, giving back, volunteering can be a positive step towards self-transformation and yield many benefits. 

One of the major mental health benefits of volunteering is its ability to reduce stress and boost happiness. Scientific studies have shown that when people volunteer, especially by engaging in altruistic activities, their brains release chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin that make them feel good. These chemicals are neurotransmitters that create a sense of joy and fulfillment. In addition to this, volunteering lowers cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. Because of this, those who readily give their time regularly often experience a greater sense of relaxation.

Another advantage of volunteering is its way of combating loneliness and building social connections. In this evolving digital age, many people struggle with isolation. Although they might be connected on social media, it does not improve one one-on-one interaction. Volunteering provides a great opportunity to network and interact with others, it helps in building meaningful relationships, and gives one a sense of belonging. In volunteering, one gets to connect with like-minded people and reduce isolation. 

Furthermore, volunteering helps in building confidence and self-esteem. Your volunteering for a cause gives you pride and a sense of identity, which is something that is not easy to come by for people struggling with their mental health. It helps you feel better about yourself and have a positive view about your life and future. Also, a sense of attainment from supporting a cause or helping someone helps one believe in oneself.

Beyond all these, giving back can be a great tool for coping with trauma and mental health challenges. It helps in dealing with grief, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Giving back can be a form of healing as it helps people struggling with mental health shift focus from their personal struggles to others. Mental health therapists often recommend volunteering as therapy or recovery. 

Neuroscientific research reveals that altruistic acts help in activating the brain's reward system and affect the brain positively. This occurs due to increased activity in the ventral striatum, a region associated with pleasure. Volunteering also fosters neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and form new connections. This adaptability is crucial for mental resilience, helping individuals develop healthier thought patterns and emotional responses. 

Getting started in volunteering is not rocket science. It's so easy and it can be rewarding. The first step is to find what you're passionate about and what aligns with your interests. It could be educational, environmental conservation, advocacy for a cause, or social justice. The next step is to join and start small. It doesn't have to be big. It doesn't have to be time-consuming. You can dedicate a few hours a week, it will definitely make a significant change. Proceeding in your volunteering journey, it's important to stay motivated and avoid burnout.  In addition, with the rise of digital platforms, you can decide to volunteer remotely. The point is just to be involved in promoting causes and giving back.

Volunteering is more than just an act of kindness; it can be a powerful tool for combating mental struggles. By giving back, you can improve your mental health and also make a difference in the lives of others. The benefits of volunteering for mental health are undeniable. In this world where things can be daunting and overwhelming, taking time to help others can be a source of healing and fulfillment for you. If you're looking for a way to improve your mental health, consider volunteering. It helps you become a better version of yourself and make the world a safe haven.