Feel Good by Doing Good: The Mental Health Benefits of Volunteering
By Lesleigh Sanders, Mental Health Program Coordinator
Volunteering and giving during the holiday season can provide a profound boost to mental well-being, making this time of year more fulfilling for those who give as well as those who receive. Studies show that volunteering not only helps reduce stress but can also improve overall life satisfaction and combat depression. According to research from the Corporation for National and Community Service, adults who volunteer report a 27% higher likelihood of experiencing excellent mental health compared to non-volunteers. This mental boost stems from the social connections formed through volunteering—connections that combat loneliness, build community, and foster a sense of belonging that’s particularly comforting around the holidays. Volunteering doesn’t just benefit adults either, it can be beneficial to high school students and even younger children as well.
One of the most rewarding effects of giving is the “helper’s high,” which occurs when endorphins and other “feel-good” chemicals are released in the brain during acts of kindness or generosity. This natural mood lift doesn’t just happen in the moment; studies show that people who engage in regular giving or volunteering report lasting improvements in mood and overall life satisfaction. This increase in positive emotions can lead to greater resilience and gratitude, both of which contribute to better mental health outcomes, especially during the often-stressful holiday season. Practicing generosity can even reduce blood pressure and lower the body’s stress response, leading to tangible health benefits alongside the mental boost.
“There are now a plethora of data showing that when individuals engage in generous and altruistic behavior, they actually activate circuits in the brain that are key to fostering well-being. These circuits get activated in a way that is more enduring than the way we respond to other positive incentives, such as winning a game or earning a prize.” -Dr. Richard Davidson in The Four Keys to Well-Being
Finally, volunteering and giving help build a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which can be a powerful motivator for individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or feelings of low self-worth. Participating in meaningful, structured activities creates a sense of responsibility, accomplishment, and self-worth—key elements for anyone working to improve mental health. In giving time or resources to support others, individuals often find that they develop greater compassion for themselves as well, enhancing their own mental resilience. The holiday season offers a range of opportunities to get involved, from supporting local food drives to contributing to community events, making it an ideal time to experience the uplifting benefits of generosity.
How to Get Started Volunteering
- Assess your skills and passions. Is there something you’ve always wanted to be a part of but never had the time to invest in before? Evaluate what type of volunteer role would be best for you.
- Research local opportunities in your area, more than just the typical tutoring or providing food to the needy. Talk to your connections or friends about organizations they may have volunteered with at some point to gauge what available options are.
- Keep an open mind. Before you start volunteering, there may be expectations you don’t realize you have that can put up walls in the process of finding a good fit. Try to be open to participating in various opportunities.
Where to Get Involved
- United Way of Greater Atlanta
- YMCA
- Cobb Mentoring Matters
- Kids Care
- CNPC
Other Ways
- JustServe
- Volunteermatch.org
- Local Church
- Cobb Collaborative Member Directory
Learning Opportunities
The Greater Good Science Center, through Berkley University, is holding a free, online learning opportunity on “How Gratitude Changes You and Your Brain” on November 21st, just in time for Thanksgiving season. Find more details here.
By finding small ways to give back, you’re not only making a difference in the lives of others but also enriching your own well-being—start your journey as a volunteer today and discover the power of generosity for a happier, healthier you.
