Volunteering is often seen as a selfless act, a way to give back to those in need. But what if helping others also heals the helper?
Volunteers are discovering that their acts of service not only transform communities but also boost their own mental well-being.
Through volunteering, we unlock a powerful cycle of positivity that uplifts both the giver and the receiver. Psychological research supports the idea that helping others can enhance mental health. When we engage in acts of kindness, our brains release endorphins, creating a sense of euphoria often referred to as the “giver’s glow.” A 2017 study published in Scientific Reports found that altruistic behaviors, like volunteering, reduce stress and increase feelings of purpose. This effect is amplified when volunteers see the visible impact of their efforts, fostering a sense of connection and fulfillment. For many, volunteering becomes a life objective, a reason to live with intention as we grow older, reminding us that small acts can move mountains.
Joy of Helping, a nonprofit dedicated to creating lasting impact through grassroots projects, here, volunteers are at the heart of transformative projects, from providing education to children in slums to supporting eye hospitals in India. One volunteer, Priya, shared her experience working with the Child Welfare Trust (CWT) in Bhuj, India. She spent weekends assisting children with cerebral palsy, helping them with sensory exercises and therapy sessions. “At first, I was there to help the kids,” Priya said. “But being around their resilience and smiles lifted a weight off my shoulders. I felt lighter, more hopeful.” Her time at CWT not only aided children in gaining independence but also helped Priya manage her own stress, offering a renewed sense of purpose.
Another volunteer, Anil, joined Joy of Helping’s efforts with Akhand Jyoti Eye Hospital in Bihar. He assisted in organizing free eye camps, where over 85,000 cataract surgeries have been performed since 2020, restoring sight to underserved communities. “Handing out glasses to someone who hasn’t seen clearly in years, it’s humbling,” Anil shared. “It reminded me how much we take for granted, and it gave me perspective.” Anil’s involvement not only brought hope to others but also reduced his anxiety, reinforcing the psychological benefits of giving.
Joy of Helping’s commitment to 100% efficient fund transparency ensures that every volunteer’s effort makes a direct impact. Whether it’s empowering women through vocational training or combating caste-based violence, volunteers witness the wave of impact of their work. The organization even encourages donors and volunteers to visit project sites, deepening their connection to the cause. These experiences remind us that our tendency to forget life’s challenges can be countered by faith in the power of small acts.
Volunteering is more than a good deed; it’s a pathway to mental wellness and a reminder of our shared humanity. As Joy of Helping shows, helping others opens big doors, not just for those we serve, but for ourselves. By giving, we find purpose, reduce stress, and build a more compassionate world, one small act at a time.
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