Helping others helps you
Volunteering and giving back help us to feel better about ourselves.
Helping others is a validating experience. Feeling as though you are making a difference in the world can protect against symptoms of depression and boost self confidence. Giving back to the community is also a great way to meet new people and feel more connected. Try volunteering for an event or cause that is important to you.
Jones, F. (2000). “Community involvement: the influence of early experience.” Canadian Social Trends. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 11-008. No. 57.
Miller, K. D., & Schleien, S. J., Rider, C., Hall, C. , Roche, M., and Worsley, J. (2002) Inclusive Volunteering: Benefits to Participants and Community. Therapeutic Recreation Journal. Vol. 36, No. 3, 247-259.
Piliavin, Jane Allyn, & Siegl, Erica. (Dec., 2007). Health Benefits of Volunteering in the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, Vol. 48, No. 4 pp. 450-464.
Wilson, John. (2000). Volunteering. Annual Review of Sociology, Vol. 26, pp. 215-240.
Connect to things bigger than you
Finding a cause or organization to support gives us perspective and meaning
The Canadian Mental Health Association – BC division recommends finding a cause or organization to support or taking action by attending a rally, signing petitions or donating money. All of these things have been shown to improve our mental health by connecting us to something greater than ourselves – specifically by increasing self-esteem, reducing blood pressure, lowering symptoms of depression and stress.
https://www.cmha.bc.ca/get-informed/mental-health-information/improving-mh
http://health.clevelandclinic.org/2014/12/why-giving-is-good-for-your-healt…