Did you know nearly 37 million Americans are on antidepressants? That’s 11% of the population. And as of 2019, just under 10% of the population had received therapy from a mental health profession.
While medications and psychotropic drugs definitely have their benefits and natural remedies should not be neglected, there’s one tool that is overlooked while assembling our arsenal of self care.
Service!
Service, volunteerism, altruism; whatever you call it helping others has documented benefits for mental and physical health, such as increase in “life satisfaction, self-esteem and happiness, lower depressive symptoms, psychological distress” and longer life expectancy. Gosh that’s a lengthy list.
Why does this happened? According the The Mayo Clinic, “volunteering reduces stress and increases positive, relaxed feelings by releasing dopamine.” As well as keeping your mind distracted from negative thinking. Or according to the 'Ajalon Definition'...it just gives you those warm fuzzies.
What can you do? Hold babies at a hospital, mentor a teen, volunteer with a refugee organization, bring someone fresh bread…the ideas are endless.
How do you squeeze in time for selfless service? Some people naturally see opportunities and grab at them. Some of us, need a little more structure in our lives. My suggestion…treat it like a prescription or a set appointment with a therapist.
No. I don't.
Find something small and achievable, like taking the trash out for an elderly neighbor, regularly volunteer with your local animal shelter or babysit once a month for a single mom. Whatever you choose - put it on your calendar - then treat it with the same seriousness and commitment that you would anything else in your wellness plan.
Let me add this important disclaimer…if you are someone who struggles with perfectionism, anxiety or OCD, I suggest approaching this differently. If one of your triggers is letting others down, find a service that does not involve people being dependent on you. So if i doesn't happen you’re not going to beat yourself up about letting other people down. Just try again the next time. For example, schedule a 10-minute walk around your neighborhood every week to pick-up liter, or collect your spare change each month and take it to donation box at a gas station.
The key is plan something realistic, preferably that you’re enthusiastic about, and schedule it into your routine.
I know that serving others has brought me joy and fulfillment. I also know that in the midst of sorrow and depression, the last thing we tend to think about is helping others.
But I promise you....it will help you in ways you would not have imagined.
What You Can Do
Just Serve is a comprehensive hub where organizations post their volunteer needs. Volunteers can search their area, interest, availability, etc. and find something that fits!
Big Brothers Big Sisters Organization
-smile
-hold the door open
-buy someone lunch
-mow your neighbor's lawn
-shovel snow on the sidewalk
-be a mentor
-donate old items
-bring baked goods to work
-compliment a stranger
-donate blood
-pay for the stranger's coffee behind you in line
-send care package to soldiers
-sing Christmas carols at a nursing home
-bring chemo care packages to hospitals
-make blessing bags for homeless & keep in your car
-write a thank you note to your children's teachers
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