In today’s world, many of us are looking for ways to improve our well-being. Traditional recommendations often include exercise, diet and mindfulness — and yes, these are also important — but there’s another surprising source of health benefits that many overlook: volunteering.
“Whether it’s sorting veggies at a local food bank, mentoring youth, helping out in a community garden or reading in your child’s classroom, giving your time to others can have profound effects on your mental and emotional health by creating a greater sense of social connection and purpose,” said Dr. Nina Birnbaum, medical director of Health Transformation at Blue Shield of California.
Many do not realize that volunteering can improve your physical well-being, as well. According to the Mayo Clinic, volunteering can reduce stress and decrease the risk of physical problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and general illness.
More and more people are discovering that volunteering is not only good for the people you help, but it’s also beneficial to you. Below are four ways that volunteering can enhance your mental and physical health:
1. Reduce stress and brighten your mood
One of the most immediate benefits of volunteering is its positive impact on stress levels. When you’re involved in something meaningful, you often forget about your own daily stresses. Helping others can also trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. These act as natural uppers, reducing stress and creating a sense of happiness and satisfaction. “Whether interacting with others or accomplishing something tangible, the act of giving can significantly improve one’s mood, leading to reduced anxiety and a calmer state of mind,” said Dr. Birnbaum.
2. Build social connections
Another clear benefit of volunteering is the opportunity it provides for social interaction, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Volunteering often involves working alongside others, whether it’s with fellow volunteers or those you are helping, which can lead to the formation of new friendships and social bonds. “Strong social connections are linked to better mental health and longevity,” Dr. Birnbaum added.
3. Improve your physical health
Volunteering is often thought of as a mental and emotional endeavor, but it can also have significant physical health benefits. Many volunteer opportunities, such as working in a community garden or helping with environmental cleanups, involve physical activity. This helps you stay active, which is crucial for maintaining good physical health. “Any task that gets you on your feet can promote better cardiovascular health, improved stamina and even a reduced risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension,” said Dr. Birnbaum.
4. Boost self-worth and confidence
When you volunteer, you often gain a sense of accomplishment by making a tangible difference in someone’s life. This, in turn, can boost your self-esteem and sense of purpose, improving your overall self-worth. The feeling of knowing you’ve helped others, even in small ways, can enhance your confidence and create a sense of pride — all which make you more likely to have a positive outlook on life and increase life satisfaction.
Volunteering is more than just a way to give back, it’s also a powerful tool for improving your own health, emphasized Dr. Birnbaum. “In a world where many struggle with mental health challenges, volunteering is an accessible and impactful way to improve well-being while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others,” she said. So, the next time you think about giving your time to a cause, remember that it’s not only good for the community — it’s good for your health too.
Resources for finding volunteer opportunities near you
- CaliforniaVolunteers.gov
- VolunteerMatch.org
- Find out if your workplace supports volunteer opportunities or matches your volunteer time with a donation. Volunteering alongside colleagues can foster greater teamwork while building morale
- Local nonprofits including YMCAs, food banks and shelters can also be a great place to find meaningful volunteer opportunities
As part of Blue Shield’s commitment to members and California communities, Blue Shield provides a wide variety of employee benefits to encourage and support employees in giving back. Read more here on Blue Shield’s strong culture of philanthropy and record-breaking employee volunteering and giving.
For more on Blue Shield’s Corporate Citizenship program, visit citizenship.blueshieldca.com