The Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering is a powerful force that not only benefits the recipients but also enriches the lives of the volunteers themselves. The act of giving back to the community through volunteer work has been proven to have many benefits on our overall wellbeing. 

According to a study published by BMJ Open: “A person involved in volunteering will have more resources, a larger social network, more power and more prestige, and this in turn leads to better physical and mental health. It has been found that the positive effect of volunteering on physical and mental health is due to the personal sense of accomplishment that an individual gains from his or her volunteering activities. Volunteering may also provide a sense of purpose, particularly for those people who have lost their earnings, because regular volunteering helps maintain social networks, which are especially important for older people who are often socially isolated.”

How giving back can improve our mental wellbeing

1. Better mental health

One of the most significant benefits of volunteering is its positive impact on our mental health. Engaging in volunteer work has been linked to reduced stress, anxiety, and depression levels. The act of helping others can provide a sense of purpose when we might be feeling a little lost in the world. Studies have shown that volunteering can boost self-esteem, increase feelings of social connectedness and create a sense of accomplishment – all of which are essential for maintaining good mental health.

2. Increased physical health

Volunteering is not only beneficial for mental health but can also have positive effects on physical health. Engaging in volunteer activities often involves physical movement and can promote a more active lifestyle. Whether it's participating in community clean-up events, serving meals at a local shelter or hosting fundraising events, volunteer work can help us to stay active and maintain a healthier lifestyle.

3. Sense of purpose and fulfilment

Volunteering can give us a sense of purpose and a feeling of fulfilment that is often lacking in other aspects of our lives. By dedicating time and effort to helping others, we’re able to make a meaningful impact on our community and contribute to positive change. This sense of purpose can lead to increased feelings of happiness, satisfaction and fulfilment. Knowing that our actions are making a difference in the lives of others can be incredibly rewarding and can help us find a deeper sense of meaning in our own lives.

4. Building social connections

Volunteer work is a powerful way to build social connections and forge meaningful relationships with others. By working together towards a common goal, we have the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and form strong bonds based on shared values and experiences. These social connections can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation and create a sense of belonging within a community.

5. Skill development and personal growth

When we undertake volunteer work, we’re given the opportunity to learn new skills, gain valuable experience, and foster personal growth. Whether it's developing leadership abilities or improving our communication and problem-solving skills, it provides a platform for continuous learning and self-improvement. By stepping out of our comfort zone and taking on new challenges, we can expand our horizons, build confidence and unlock our full potential.



The benefits of volunteering extend beyond simply helping others as it gives us with a sense of purpose and opportunities for personal growth. So, whether it's dedicating a few hours a week to a local charity or embarking on a volunteer mission abroad, by volunteering, we have the potential to transform our lives.