Looking for ways to boost your mood, lower your stress and lengthen your life? Consider volunteering. In addition to the good you’ll impart on others, research consistently shows a link between altruism and good health. And since April is National Volunteer Month, it’s a great time to start. In the meantime, here’s a closer look at some of the mind and body benefits.
- Added perspective: It’s never a good idea to ignore your own problems, but a little perspective can do wonders for your attitude. When you go out of your way to help others—especially those who are less fortunate—you’re naturally better equipped to notice and appreciate the good in your own life.
- A sense of community: Feeling lonely? Get out of the house and spend time with other people. Volunteering creates an opportunity to expand your community, meet new people, and form friendships with other volunteers who share common interests. So don’t sit at home waiting for the phone to ring. Step out of your comfort zone and get involved.
- Reduced stress: It feels good to donate your time and talents to helping others. That happy feeling produces changes in the brain that reduce stress levels and improve your overall health. Each time your brain registers a positive experience, it creates a memory bank for you to draw on in the future. Think of it as a mental gift that keeps on giving.
- Renewed purpose: People who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and PTSD often lack emotional stability. Helping others is a great way to regain a sense of purpose and ground your emotions in situations and experiences that are healthy, focused and meaningful.
- Longevity: In addition to the physical health benefits, volunteering is a great way to add vitality and fun to your life. In fact, research shows that folks who volunteer actually live longer. When you realize the positive impact of your efforts, you’ll derive an amazing amount of satisfaction and joy.
Not sure where to begin? Explore resources like Volunteer Match, a resource that makes it easier to find a cause you’re interested in. You could also inquire about volunteer opportunities at a nearby school, a local food pantry or a well-known cause like The Ronald McDonald House.
David Lowenstein, Ph.D. is a psychologist and the clinical director of Lowenstein & Associates, Inc. in Columbus, Ohio. In addition to providing therapeutic services to individuals and families, he offers training and consultation to numerous associations, schools and agencies around the country. Additionally, he is a frequent radio and TV guest and a resource and contributing writer for numerous newspapers and magazines nationwide. Contact Dr. David Lowenstein at 691 South Fifth Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43206, or call 614.443.6155 or 614.444.0432.
