Transcript Health_Benefits_of_Volunteering

Health Benefits of
Volunteering
National Monitor, August
2013
• University Exeter Medical School
• May improve mental health & live longer
• Biological & cultural factors
• Worldwide volunteering rates –
• 22.5% Europe
• 36% Australia
• 27% United States
(Dr Suzanne Richards, 2013)
Helpers High
• Study involved over 3,000
• Frequent helpers reported physical effects
• Similar to those who are physically active or
meditate
• Endorphins released during positive social
contact
• Counteract body’s agitated conditions
Allen Luks, 1988
Stony Brook University
• 2009 study of 5,000 Americans
• Volunteers felt physically healthier,
happier, less stressed and slept better
• Health benefits
• Meaningful activities
• Made people feel like they mattered
• Adjust to change
Dr Stephen Post
Reviews….
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More than 40 published papers…
Volunteers 20% lower risk of death
Lower levels of depression
Increased life satisfaction
Enhanced well being
Health and wellbeing
• Volunteering can lower depression levels.
• Volunteering is beneficial on heart and lung
functions.
• Volunteering has positive effects on mental
and emotional problems.
• … if you want to be happy, try volunteering.
Happiness Effect
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Helping others kindles happiness
Experience ‘warm glow’
Feel stronger & more energetic
Positive moods
Less anxiety & feelings of helplessness
Doctors should be prescribing
Volunteering
• News reports across the globe
• In some cases… all that’s needed is a good
‘dose’ of volunteering
• Forget traditional pills
• Feel good factors
• Endorphins, happy hormones
• Helpers high
Volunteering - Health benefits
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Live longer – up to 10 years…
Less heart disease
Lower levels of depression
Less chronic pain
Lower blood pressure
Improved immune system
Helps you lose weight, reduce alcohol
consumption & smoking
Personal benefits…
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Enhanced well–being
More connected
Lifelong learning
Positive self-identity / sense of purpose
Sense of control
Making a difference
Improved love life!
Benefit #1 - Connections
• Make new friends & contacts
• Increases your social & relationship
skills
• Volunteering as family
Benefit #2- Mind & Body
• Increases self-confidence
• Combats depression
• Stay physically healthy
Benefit #3- Career Growth
• Provides career experience
• Teaches valuable job skills
• Pathway to employment
Benefit #4- Fun & Fulfilment
• Renewed creativity, motivation &
vision
• Consider your hobbies & interests
• Consider your goals
Head, Hands & Heart Activity