How 67 minutes can improve your well-being
Reap the benefits of volunteer work this Mandela Day.
Altruism is commonly seen as a big part of the reason we help those less fortunate than ourselves.
While this may be indeed true, research suggests there are also more selfish benefits to doing volunteer work.
Researchers who’ve investigated the link between volunteering and health have found that those who help others not only benefit those whom they help, but also improve their own well-being.
A survey of volunteer workers commissioned by the UnitedHealth Group found that a majority of participants reported feeling mentally and physically healthier after a volunteer experience.
A similar study published in the journal BMC Public Health found that volunteers had lower levels of depression, increased life satisfaction and enhanced well-being.
Another study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Medicine found a ‘strong correlation’ between the well-being, happiness, health, and longevity of people who are compassionate, so long as they are not overwhelmed by helping tasks.
If you would like to start doing some volunteer work, here’s a list of 67 charities we’ve put together to get you started on your 67 minutes of volunteer work for Mandela Day.
Do it for others or do it for Madiba, or do it for yourself.
