Health_Benefits_of_Volunteering

Health Benefits of Volunteering

National Monitor, August 2013 • University Exeter Medical School • May improve mental health & live longer • Biological & cultural factors

• Worldwide volunteering rates – • 22.5% Europe • 36% Australia • 27% United States (Dr Suzanne Richards, 2013)

Helpers High • Study involved over 3,000 • Frequent helpers reported physical effects • Similar to those who are physically active or meditate • Endorphins released during positive social contact • Counteract body’s agitated conditions Allen Luks, 1988

Stony Brook University • 2009 study of 5,000 Americans • Volunteers felt physically healthier, happier, less stressed and slept better • Health benefits • Meaningful activities • Made people feel like they mattered • Adjust to change Dr Stephen Post

Reviews…. • • • • •

More than 40 published papers… Volunteers 20% lower risk of death Lower levels of depression Increased life satisfaction Enhanced well being

Health and wellbeing • Volunteering can lower depression levels. • Volunteering is beneficial on heart and lung functions. • Volunteering has positive effects on mental and emotional problems. • … if you want to be happy, try volunteering.

Happiness Effect • • • • •

Helping others kindles happiness Experience ‘warm glow’ Feel stronger & more energetic Positive moods Less anxiety & feelings of helplessness

Doctors should be prescribing Volunteering • News reports across the globe • In some cases… all that’s needed is a good ‘dose’ of volunteering • Forget traditional pills • Feel good factors • Endorphins, happy hormones • Helpers high

Volunteering - Health benefits • • • • • • •

Live longer – up to 10 years… Less heart disease Lower levels of depression Less chronic pain Lower blood pressure Improved immune system Helps you lose weight, reduce alcohol consumption & smoking

Personal benefits… • • • • • • •

Enhanced well–being More connected Lifelong learning Positive self-identity / sense of purpose Sense of control Making a difference Improved love life!

Benefit #1 - Connections • Make new friends & contacts • Increases your social & relationship skills • Volunteering as family

Benefit #2- Mind & Body • Increases self-confidence • Combats depression • Stay physically healthy

Benefit #3- Career Growth • Provides career experience • Teaches valuable job skills • Pathway to employment

Benefit #4- Fun & Fulfilment • Renewed creativity, motivation & vision • Consider your hobbies & interests • Consider your goals

Head, Hands & Heart Activity