Volunteering has both emotional and physical benefits on our health. As a interventional pain physician I have a goal of getting people to that point where they feel like reaching beyond their needs and assisting others. In a study of recently retired patients with arthritis Dr. Barlow reported that volunteering led to a new life purpose, pain reduction and a greater desire “to get on with life".
What’s more in a recent study published in Social Science and Medicine, Dr. Morris Okun and colleagues found that those with the greatest physical limitations benefitted the most from volunteering!
Volunteering can:
- Help you connect with the community
- Allow you to learn new things
- Give new meaning to your life
- Boost your self esteem
- reduce feelings of isolationism
- change your focus from your pain to others needs
- restore balance of giving verses taking
Volunteer work is good for you regardless the amount you complete. The more the merrier I always say. Being active within your community and volunteering to complete good deeds will result in great rewards. Be sure to only volunteer when time allows. Do not get yourself overly involved to the point where you cannot say no. If you get to this point then volunteering may cause undue stress and that would take away from the benefit of volunteering.
More About this Book
Fit As Fido: Follow Your Dog to Better Health
Continue Learning about Health and Society
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.