Although society has made great strides in recent decades in terms of awareness and recognition of mental health, it remains a major social problem. Points of Light’s in-depth study on mental health found that 39% of people are particularly concerned about their mental health compared to other social issues. In particular, interest tends to skew slightly toward younger generations: 44% of Gen Z, 42% of Millennials, and 40% of Gen X, compared to 31% of baby boomers. Women were also more concerned, with 44% of their girlfriends compared to 33% of men.
October 10th is World Mental Health Day, a day to raise awareness about mental health and mobilize support for people living with mental health problems. Every year, the World Health Organization (WHO) organizes a global campaign for World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme, set by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), is “Mental health is a universal human right.”
Research shows that civic engagement is a great way to improve mental health and well-being.
- Volunteering increases psychological well-being and reduces symptoms of depression.
- When older adults participate in volunteering, they are able to participate in meaningful activities, which increases their sense of well-being.
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have been able to find and create connections with themselves and others by engaging in service activities.
“Improving mental health and civic engagement often go hand in hand,” said Dena Rodriguez Leach, Mental Wellness Director and Workforce Development Program Manager at Spark the Change Colorado. Masu. She says, “There is evidence that there is a strong correlation between volunteering and well-being. Benefits include a sense of purpose, social connectedness, reduced stress, and increased self-esteem.”
Take action for others and improve your own well-being
When we take action for a cause we care about, we not only act for the benefit of others, but also receive benefits, including our own mental health and well-being.
Aarti Madhusudan, principal consultant at iVolunteer, says, “Volunteering or otherwise engaging with the community gives individuals a sense of purpose and gratitude, both of which influence the release of oxytocin, which leads to happiness.” It has been scientifically proven to bring about a sense of well-being.” “Participation in civic activities allows individuals to focus on external matters; [with] Energy is poured into other people’s problems.Be part of the solution [affecting] Perhaps less privileged communities generate greater confidence in their own abilities and resilience. All of these are extremely valuable for positive mental health. ”
Interested in volunteering for mental health or other causes? Check out Points of Light Engagement® — The world’s largest digital volunteer network.
Rodriguez Leach agreed: “Citizenship provides a sense of purpose for individuals who volunteer and advocate for a particular cause. Research shows that contributing to the improvement of society increases self-esteem and overall satisfaction. Participating in a cause increases self-esteem and overall satisfaction. , it provides a sense of empowerment, increases self-worth, provides personal growth, social connection, and a sense of purpose, leading to a greater sense of emotional fulfillment and well-being.”
Become a point of light for mental health
Each of us must join the movement to promote access to quality mental health care for all people, regardless of their mental health status or experience, and to end discrimination based on mental health status. I can.
Our in-depth research on mental health shows that 83% of people feel that volunteering with a cause or organization is some of the most impactful actions they can take to support their mental health, either in person or online. , found that 80% are inclined to make a charitable donation to a cause or organization. organization.
“Civic engagement is a way to get involved in something bigger than yourself.”
– Dena Rodriguez-Leach, Mental Wellness Oversight and Workforce Development Program Manager, Spark the Change Colorado
Ready to start your civic engagement journey? Find opportunities no matter your age, availability, location, or interests.
Opportunities for citizen participation to improve mental health
- Involves a point of light®: The world’s largest digital volunteer network: Points of Light aggregates volunteer opportunities from sites across the web, providing the most comprehensive database of volunteer opportunities around the world. Individuals can search for volunteer projects, nonprofits can post and manage event registrations, and visitors are invited to start their own projects. All in one place.
- Point of Light Global Network: The Points of Light global network accelerates people-led social impact across 38 countries. Find your local Points of Light affiliate and see what your community needs.
- DIY volunteer project: Access easy DIY volunteer projects that families and individuals of all ages can complete in their spare time. For example, you can donate food to essential workers at work, assemble comfort bags for youth facing hardship, or build compost bins for greener communities. Masu.
- Volunteer advice and resources: Explore more ways to access service opportunities, support the specific causes you care about, and strategically scale your impact.