Thinking of volunteering
Every day across Northern BC, United Way volunteers make our community a better place to live.
According to helpguide.org , volunteering is good for both mental and physical health
Reduce effects of stress and anxiety
The social contact aspect of helping and working with others can have a profound effect on your overall psychological well-being.
Combats depression
Volunteering keeps you in regular contact with others and helps you develop a solid support system, which in turn protects you against depression.
Makes you happy
By measuring hormones and brain activity, researchers have discovered that being helpful to others delivers immense pleasure. The more we give, the happier we feel.
Increases self-confidence
You are doing good for others and the community, which provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Your role as a volunteer can also give you a sense of pride and identity.
Provides a sense of purpose
Older adults, especially those who have retired or lost a spouse, can find new meaning and direction in their lives by helping others.
Helps you stay physically healthy
Studies have found that those who volunteer have a lower mortality rate than those who do not. Older volunteers tend to walk more, find it easier to cope with everyday tasks, are less likely to develop high blood pressure, and have better thinking skills.
