Volunteering doesn’t just change the lives of others. It can also change yourself. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the powerful mental health benefits of volunteering. We’ll explore how giving back to your community can give you a sense of purpose, reduce stress, and bring great joy to your life.
Whether you’re looking for ways to be happier, make new friends, or find a sense of pride and identity, this guide will help you discover how volunteering a little time can pay off in big ways. Let’s explore why reaching out can put a smile on your face and bring a little extra fun into your life.
How volunteering can help mental health
1. The mental health benefits of volunteering
The impact of volunteering goes beyond the act itself. When you reach out, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that can brighten your life. It can reduce feelings of depression and anxiety and give you a more positive outlook on your life and future. A study from the Mayo Clinic shows that helping others can help offset anxiety by focusing your attention on meaningful work rather than daily worries.
For single moms, managing mental health challenges is a constant struggle. Volunteering can help you find purpose through small acts of kindness to address these mental health issues.
2. Good for your mind and body
Volunteering is also good for your physical health. When you participate in community service, your hormones and brain activity change to help you relax. This can lower blood pressure, improve physical health, and make you feel happier and healthier overall.
For single moms like us who don’t have enough social interaction, volunteering can connect you with others. It provides the opportunity to meet new people. It’s also a way to remove the stigma of isolation while enhancing overall health.
3. Volunteering connects you with others
One of the greatest benefits of volunteering is that it brings you closer to others. You join a group of people who care about the same things and want to make a difference. This can help you make new friends and build a solid support network.
Offering assistance gives you the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. It can give you a break from the daily grind of mommy life and give you some energy. You could help out at a local food bank, soup kitchen, or even a museum docent program. There are many opportunities for you to make friends while doing good.
4. It can help advance your career
Beyond mental health, volunteering can help you advance your career. You can enhance your resume with experience gained working in a variety of fields. This is a way to explore different types of jobs and discover your strengths. If you are a shy employee, this kind of job can also help you build your confidence. This is simply killing two birds with one stone!
5. It gives you a sense of purpose and accomplishment
You feel a sense of pride and recognition when you contribute to something bigger than yourself. This feeling can reduce depression and help you feel more content with life. Through volunteering, you can build meaningful connections with your community. Whether it’s delivering meals to seniors or supporting a local health organization, it can be great fun and help you feel valued and accomplished.
6. It helps you learn new skills
Volunteering is a great way to learn new things in a low-pressure environment. There are many volunteer opportunities available to help you grow and expand your knowledge. You can learn about healthcare, community work, and even animal care. With your newfound skills, you can increase your confidence and gain a sense of accomplishment. These skills are extremely valuable, especially if you have potential career prospects.
7. It connects you to your community
Volunteering is one of the most effective ways to connect and give back to your community. When you lend a hand, you become part of a team working toward a common goal. This sense of connection can be life-changing. Knowing that you are part of something bigger, and that you are not alone in your efforts, can give you tremendous relief from your daily struggles. It’s great to know you are building a stronger community and a better place for your children.
8. Helps reduce stress
So, how can volunteering help reduce stress? When you’re busy reaching out, it takes your mind off worries and puts a positive spin on your life. US research shows that volunteering can reduce anxiety and improve mental health.
When you feel like you’re drowning in the daily challenges of raising children, helping out can be a distraction. Giving back to others is a satisfying way to offset the effects of stress and improve your overall mental health.
When it all feels overwhelming, remember that there is community and people ready to support you. Visit pages like Single Mama Way where you’ll find single mom counselors who understand what you’re going through. They provide counseling and guidance to help you regain control and find joy in life again.
Further reading: 10 calming tips for single moms.
FAQ
What types of volunteering are good for your mental health?
From helping in a community garden, working with animals, supporting local seniors to working remotely via phone or computer, there are countless types of volunteering that can benefit your mental health. Choose volunteer work that matches your interests.
If you don’t have a lot of free time, you can opt for a flexible opportunity that renders for a few hours each week. This way, volunteering becomes less of a task on a to-do list and more of a fulfilling experience that prevents mental health issues.
How much time should you spend volunteering?
The time you devote to helping is entirely up to you. Research shows that about 100 hours a year, or about 2 hours a week, can bring significant mental health benefits. But even spending an hour here or there can have a positive impact.
I know how hard it is for us single moms to balance our time, so start small if you need to. Helping out for even an hour a week can help you feel accomplished and connected. Volunteering is a great way to make a difference without feeling overwhelmed by the time commitment.
Summary: How volunteering can help mental health
Volunteering is more than just giving back. This is a way to improve your mental health and create meaningful connections with your community. It can help you reduce anxiety, gain new skills, and find meaning and identity.
I remember the first time I volunteered at a local animal shelter. I honestly thought it would be a good thing for the community, but it turned out to be a major moral boost for me. I met people who became close friends, learned to care for animals, and felt more connected and content. Even if you only volunteer for a few hours here and there, it’s amazing how much joy it can add to your life. The joy you get from volunteering is real and makes everything richer. Give it a try; you might be surprised!
