The Importance of Giving
In the business and weariness of daily life, we often focus on managing stress and striving for personal growth. The act of service, or volunteering is an understated tool for improving our own life, as well as the work around us. Whether through volunteering our time, offering support to others, or contributing to a cause we care about, giving can have a huge impact on our well-being.
The Science of Giving and Mental Health
Research consistently shows that giving has significant mental health benefits. Studies have found that people who volunteer experience lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. The act of giving triggers the release of "feel-good" chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and endorphins, which can create what some call a "helper’s high." This boost in mood can lead to increased feelings of satisfaction and self-worth.
Moreover, giving fosters a sense of purpose. When we contribute to something larger than ourselves, we shift our focus from our own problems to the needs of others. This shift can be especially powerful for people struggling with feelings of hopelessness or low self-esteem, helping them see that their actions matter and make a difference in the world.
Volunteering as a Path to Connection
One of the most vital aspects of mental health is human connection. Many people come to therapy because they feel isolated or disconnected from others. Volunteering provides an opportunity to build relationships, meet new people, and develop a sense of belonging within a community. Whether you're working at a local food bank, mentoring a child, or participating in community cleanups, these shared experiences can lead to deep, meaningful connections with others.
In addition, giving creates reciprocity. Helping others can inspire them to give back, creating a ripple effect of kindness and compassion. This can lead to more positive interactions, both personally and professionally, enhancing one's social support network—a critical component for mental health.
Self-Care Through Altruism
While it might seem counterintuitive, giving to others can be a form of self-care. In therapy, we often talk about the importance of setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and making time for oneself. But giving can be a complementary practice. It’s not about draining yourself to help others but about finding balance. The key is to give in ways that are fulfilling and sustainable. When we help others in ways that align with our values and strengths, we feel energized rather than depleted.
For example, a busy professional might feel overwhelmed by the idea of committing to a long-term volunteer position. However, they could still make a meaningful impact by donating their skills for a one-time event or finding ways to incorporate small acts of kindness into their daily routine.
What are some ways to volunteer in our community?
Check out Volunteer Lubbock for some volunteering opportunities.
Check in with your neighbor or coworker. Especially after COVID 19, our word has become so isolated. The next time you bake, bring some extra goodies over to your neighbor and say hello. Invite your coworker (bonus if they have children the same age as yours) over for a dinner night.
Donate: You can donate clothes, blankets, toys, books, and more to facilities who will put them to use. The FOUND mission has great opportunities coming up for donations.
Join or make a club. Loneliness truly is an epidemic (that’s a whole other blog post to make in the future). Simply by joining or creating a club, that creates time for you to connect with others and for others to connect with you. I have found that the greatest amount of service comes from helping the people around you in their daily life.
Final Thoughts
Giving and volunteering are not just acts of kindness—they are acts of self-care. In a world where stress, anxiety, and depression are increasingly common, the power of giving can offer relief, connection, and fulfillment. Whether it’s through volunteering time, offering support to a friend, or contributing to a cause, every act of generosity has the potential to heal both the giver and the receiver.
