Top Benefits of Volunteering for Your Mental Health

Since the age of 14, Ayden Hector has been volunteering at B. Box (Birthday Box), a fundraising effort that provides birthday boxes for homeless youth. He is now one of the principal organizers, helping to expand the effort to also provide 500 B. Boxes to homeless individuals on Christmas Day. 

Ayden has discovered that volunteering is not a one-way activity. Instead, those who selfishly give their time and effort to non-profits discover they reap unexpected and meaningful benefits. Research has proven that volunteer work enriches mental health, enhances empathy, strengthens social bonds, and promotes physical vitality. 

For people young or older, giving back to the community can teach new skills, instill cultural awareness, and provide long-term growth. Some of the top benefits that Hector believes volunteering will deliver include a boost in one’s feelings of happiness, a reduced tendency towards loneliness,  and an overall improvement of mental wellness.

The Happiness Effect of Volunteering

We live in a fast-paced society, where many communities face daunting challenges that organizations work hard to eliminate. At the same time, our modern lifestyles can leave some people feeling lonely, discontent, or without a purpose. Giving back can provide a meaningful way to counter feelings of helplessness or disconnection. Studies have shown that even a few hours of volunteer work each month can lead to noticeable improvements in mental health. 

Ayden Hector’s volunteer work for B. Box and other groups, such as Pick 6 Youth Flag Football, where he was a volunteer referee, and his participation in Relay for Life, have brought him hours of joy and satisfaction. He believes that helping others can cultivate both happiness and gratitude.

Volunteering helps relieve stress by focusing on meaningful tasks rather than dwelling on worries. Engaging in activities that continue cultivates empathy and returns to the brain associated with feelings of happiness and satisfaction. Whether organizing community events or spending time with those in need, acts of service have been shown to foster a sense of calm and emotional balance.

Beyond stress reduction, volunteering is deeply tied to building self-esteem and confidence. Accomplishing tasks that make a tangible impact on someone’s life reinforces a person’s sense of worth. Many people discover hidden strengths or skills through volunteer work, which can be a revelation for those who may have previously doubted their abilities. Youth mentors might find they have a natural ability to inspire and guide others, creating a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Combats Loneliness and Isolation

Research continues to show that large populations are experiencing chronic loneliness or lack meaningful connections. Unfortunately, the Facebook friends, text messaging, and other online social connections do not satisfy the need for human companionship. One of the most significant benefits of volunteering is building meaningful connections that can reduce feelings of loneliness.

Volunteering can act as a bridge for those struggling with isolation. Engaging with others in a supportive environment provides a platform for social engagement and can often lead to long-term relationships or future collaborations. People who may have previously felt invisible often feel valued and appreciated in a volunteer setting. 

Working together to clean up communities, organizing a fundraising event, or feeding the homeless community can reignite a sense of purpose and remind individuals that they are integral to something larger than themselves. The people connections made while working together towards a common cause enhance mental and emotional health, while also reducing feelings of loneliness.

The Holistic Health Benefits

One of the goals of Ayden Hector and B. Box is not only to provide essentials like toiletry items, flash drives, snacks, and gift cards. They aspire to put something normal into the lives of homeless youth, and a way to make them feel wanted and appreciated in society. This approach is a fundamental principle of holistic health. That is to nourish people’s physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.

Even less physically demanding acts of service contribute to a sense of holistic health. Community service programs like telephone hotlines can improve the emotional, spiritual, and social satisfaction of both the volunteer and the participant. Because human capacities (mind, spirit, and body) are closely intertwined, community activities can positively influence the physical body and reinforce mental health. Hector often feels more energized and motivated in his daily life since volunteering has become a cornerstone of his healthy lifestyle choices that nurture mind and body.

You can also choose volunteer opportunities that directly support holistic health. These service areas include art, music, horticulture, fitness, tutoring, reading for the blind, cleaning coastal shores or green spaces, and many more. Engaging in additional physical and social activities keeps the body moving and can reduce stress hormones. The volunteer’s health and wellness may also improve through improved sleep patterns, lowered blood pressure, or better mood. 

It only takes a little research to find the right volunteer opportunity to provide a fulfilling and meaningful social life and a bit of happiness, all while benefiting your mental health.