We often think of volunteering as a way to give back to the community—and it is. But did you know that helping others can also do you a world of good?
Psychologists have long studied the benefits of volunteering, and the results are clear: volunteering is good for your mental and emotional health. When you give your time and energy to help someone else, your brain releases feel-good chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin. These are the same chemicals that boost your mood, reduce stress and even help you feel more connected to others.
Volunteering is linked to enhanced life satisfaction, happiness, self-esteem, and perceived mental health. It can contribute to psychological and social well-being, reducing stress and creating meaningful social roles, which correlate with decreased psychological distress.
The mental health benefits of volunteering can be particularly helpful for older adults, individuals with lower life satisfaction, unemployed people and those with chronic health conditions. It may also offer distinct advantages for people with disabilities and those experiencing mental ill-health.
For many, especially those going through major life transitions, volunteering can offer a renewed sense of purpose. It’s easy to feel adrift after retirement, the loss of a partner or moving to a new place. But volunteering can give your day structure and meaning. It reminds you that you still have so much to give—and that your presence matters.
Research indicates that the specific type of volunteering activity does not significantly influence mental health outcomes. Benefits are consistent across various sectors and roles.
Another bonus? Social connection. Loneliness and isolation are known risk factors for depression and anxiety, particularly as we get older. Volunteering regularly introduces you to people with shared interests and often leads to genuine friendships. Whether you’re planting trees, serving meals or mentoring a young person, you become part of something bigger than yourself. Volunteering is not just about the big gestures. Even small acts of kindness—like checking in on a neighbour or helping at a local event—can lift your spirits and improve your wellbeing.
May 19-25 is National Volunteer Week, which raises awareness of the benefits of volunteering but also celebrates the amazing work that Volunteers do every week. Not only do volunteers experience the mental health benefit of volunteering, but they are also integral to Australia’s mental health workforce, providing essential services and support.
Help yourself by helping others. You’ll not only make someone else’s day a little brighter, but you might just brighten your own. To find local volunteering opportunities, you can contact any community organisation and ask if they have any volunteering opportunities or visit fnqvolunteers.org.au and have a look at their database in the areas that interest you.
The information provided is from Better Together Community Support. This advice may not suit your personal situation and therefore cannot substitute real psychological advice please consult a professional if this has raised issues for you.