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)

• 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

• 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

• More than 40 published papers…
• Volunteers 20% lower risk of death
• Lower levels of depression
• Increased life satisfaction
• Enhanced well being

• 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 .

• 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

• 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

• Enhanced well–being
• More connected
• Lifelong learning
• Positive self-identity / sense of purpose
• Sense of control
• Making a difference
• Improved love life!

• Make new friends & contacts
• Increases your social & relationship skills
• Volunteering as family

• Increases self-confidence
• Combats depression
• Stay physically healthy

• Provides career experience
• Teaches valuable job skills
• Pathway to employment

• Renewed creativity, motivation & vision
• Consider your hobbies & interests
• Consider your goals

Head, Hands & Heart Activity