Service as Self-Care: How Volunteering Supports Mental Well-Being
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and it offers an important reminder: mental health matters at every stage of life. From the pressures of adolescence to the stressors of adulthood, many of us are searching for ways to feel grounded, connected, and purposeful. One often overlooked path to improved well-being is volunteering.
Why Volunteering Boosts Mental Health
Decades of research confirm what many of us intuitively know: giving back feels good. But beyond the “warm glow,” volunteering has measurable benefits for mental health across age groups:
Reduces stress and anxiety – Shifting focus from personal worries to helping others can calm the nervous system.
Builds social connection – Isolation is a leading risk factor for poor mental health. Volunteering creates community, whether through one-on-one mentorship or group service projects.
Increases confidence and self-worth – Both teens and adults gain a sense of accomplishment when they see their time and talents making a tangible impact.
Fosters resilience and perspective – Supporting people in need nurtures gratitude and reinforces coping skills.
The Impact on Teens
For teens navigating school pressures, friendships, and future goals, volunteering provides a sense of belonging and purpose that is critical for emotional well-being. Teens who serve often report reduced stress, stronger peer connections, and a clearer understanding of their ability to make a difference. At Volunteer Collective, we’ve seen students light up when they realize their service hours don’t just “check a box”—they change lives.
The Impact on Adults
Adults also benefit greatly from volunteerism. Whether managing careers, raising families, or coping with life transitions, many adults face stress and burnout. Volunteering offers a reset: a chance to connect with others, contribute to something bigger, and strengthen social ties. For older adults, volunteering has even been linked to lower rates of depression and cognitive decline.
Shared Benefits Across Generations
When families volunteer together—or when adults mentor young volunteers—the impact is multiplied. Teens see role models of civic responsibility, and adults experience renewed energy and purpose. Service bridges generations, strengthening community bonds and breaking down the isolation that fuels mental health struggles.
A Call to Action
Mental health challenges cannot be solved by volunteering alone, but service is a powerful, accessible tool to support well-being for both teens and adults. At Volunteer Collective, we make it easy for parents, teens, and even younger siblings to serve together. By sharing opportunities to connect, give back, and celebrate impact, we build stronger individuals and a stronger Los Angeles.
If you’re ready to take a step toward better mental health through service, explore opportunities.
