Discover how volunteering promotes positive mental wellbeing
Not only is volunteering a great way to develop new skills and make a difference to those who need it, but it also has reported benefits for mental wellbeing.
According to a report by the NCVO, 77% of volunteers found volunteering improved their mental health and wellbeing – this underscores the impact that volunteering can have on an individual’s wellbeing.
Let’s explore 4 ways volunteering can contribute to positive mental wellbeing.
Volunteering increases a sense of accomplishment
By providing a sense of accomplishment, volunteering can help you feel better about yourself which can positively impact your life, abilities and future goals.
One volunteer recalled a fantastic memory with her reader:
“Today I came off the session in happy tears because he remembered how to pronounce some of the words from the last session”.
Overcoming challenges like these, can help to reinforce a sense of accomplishment and serve as a powerful motivator to continue your support.
Such achievements provide tangible evidence of your abilities and efforts, reinforcing self-worth and motivating you to set and achieve more goals for you and your reader.
2. Helps with feelings of isolation
Another benefit of volunteering is the ability to connect with others. Whether you’re in-person or online volunteering, face-to-face interaction, is essential for our mental wellbeing.
The NCVO study found that 68% of volunteers agreed their volunteering had helped them feel less isolated – which shows the positive impact volunteering can have on reducing loneliness and isolation.
On our dedicated volunteers platform, Guild, our volunteer community offers support, encouragement and a sense of belonging for all members. Sharing experiences with others enriches your volunteering experience and is a great way to connect with others.
Our online volunteer events are also a chance for Bookmark volunteers to meet others who share the same passion. We host regular drop-in “Tea Breaks” and a monthly Bookclub, so there’s always opportunities to meet other fellow volunteers.
3. Increases confidence
Performing activities that challenge and excite you can be a great way to increase self-esteem and build your confidence.
One volunteer recalled that her reader said “you’re teaching me really good”, which in turn, made her “smile for the rest of the day”. Positive feedback and recognition can significantly boost confidence by affirming one’s skills and contributions.
This confidence often spills over into other areas of your life, enhancing your overall mental wellbeing.
4. Gives a sense of purpose
Volunteering provides a sense of purpose that can enhance your mental wellbeing. Whether you’re wanting to enhance your skillset or looking for a volunteer opportunity to fill your spare time, volunteering with Bookmark is a great way to align personal values with meaningful actions.
This sense of purpose arises from knowing you are making a difference to change a child’s story. By giving back to the community through something you are passionate about, volunteering can help you to find a greater satisfaction and deeper connection to the world around you.
If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities, visit the volunteers page on our website.
Sign up to volunteer
Do something amazing and change a child’s story through the joy of reading.
