Feeling disconnected? You're not alone. Loneliness has become a public health crisis, with the former U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, calling it an epidemic.

But here's some good news: one of the most powerful antidotes to loneliness is something within everyone's reach—volunteering. Research shows that serving others isn't just good for your community; it's good for you, too.

3 Reasons Volunteering Could Be the Best Medicine

1. Boosts Well-Being and Eases Stress

Volunteering has been linked to lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. According to research from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), focusing on helping others can shift attention away from personal worries, leading to a sense of fulfillment and reduced stress. Service to others fosters meaning and belonging, which are essential for long-term happiness and health.

2. Builds Meaningful Connections

Social connection is essential to well-being, and volunteering is a natural way to meet people who share your interests and values. The Surgeon General's report found that people with a strong sense of community belonging are 2.6 times more likely to report good or excellent health than those who feel isolated. Dr. Murthy adds that volunteering contributes to the "time-tested triad of fulfillment" — relationships, service, and purpose.

3. Cultivates a Sense of Purpose

When you volunteer, you're not just filling time—you're making a difference. This sense of purpose has been shown to improve mental health and even extend lifespan. As Dr. Murthy notes in his 'parting prescription' for America:

Put This Advice into Action

If you lead or schedule volunteers:

• Share the "why": Use your newsletters, emails, or events to highlight how volunteering supports mental health and builds community.
• Invite with purpose: When recruiting volunteers, frame service opportunities as ways to find connection and support well-being—in addition to meeting your organization's needs.
• Make it easy to say "yes": Ensure signups are simple, welcome new volunteers warmly, and offer flexibility with scheduling to help them get started.

For more insight into the mental health benefits of volunteering, check out resources like The Surgeon General's Advisory on Social Connection and The Happiness Lab Podcast.