1. Health Benefits of Volunteering

2. National Monitor, August 2013 University Exeter Medical School May improve mental health & live longer Biological & cultural factors Worldwide volunteering rates – 22.5% Europe 36% Australia 27% United States (Dr Suzanne Richards, 2013)

3. Helpers High Study involved over 3,000 Frequent helpers reported physical effects Similar to those who are physically active or meditate Endorphins released during positive social contact Counteract body’s agitated conditions Allen Luks, 1988

4. Stony Brook University 2009 study of 5,000 Americans Volunteers felt physically healthier, happier, less stressed and slept better Health benefits Meaningful activities Made people feel like they mattered Adjust to change Dr Stephen Post

5. Reviews…. More than 40 published papers… Volunteers 20% lower risk of death Lower levels of depression Increased life satisfaction Enhanced well being

6. Health and wellbeing Volunteering can lower depression levels. Volunteering is beneficial on heart and lung functions. Volunteering has positive effects on mental and emotional problems. … if you want to be happy, try volunteering.

7. Happiness Effect Helping others kindles happiness Experience ‘warm glow’ Feel stronger & more energetic Positive moods Less anxiety & feelings of helplessness

8. Doctors should be prescribing Volunteering News reports across the globe In some cases… all that’s needed is a good ‘dose’ of volunteering Forget traditional pills Feel good factors Endorphins, happy hormones Helpers high

9. Volunteering - Health benefits Live longer – up to 10 years… Less heart disease Lower levels of depression Less chronic pain Lower blood pressure Improved immune system Helps you lose weight, reduce alcohol consumption & smoking

10. Personal benefits… Enhanced well–being More connected Lifelong learning Positive self-identity / sense of purpose Sense of control Making a difference Improved love life!

11. Benefit #1 - Connections Make new friends & contacts Increases your social & relationship skills Volunteering as family

12. Benefit #2- Mind & Body Increases self-confidence Combats depression Stay physically healthy

13. Benefit #3- Career Growth Provides career experience Teaches valuable job skills Pathway to employment

14. Benefit #4- Fun & Fulfilment Renewed creativity, motivation & vision Consider your hobbies & interests Consider your goals

15. Head, Hands & Heart Activity