Give happy, live happy – let’s make Australia the happiest nation on earth! This is the theme for this year’s National Volunteer Week, May 9 to 15. 

Every year 6 million Australians give happiness to others through volunteering in their communities. And Tasmanians make up almost 140,000 of this figure.

There are so many volunteers throughout the state working within their communities and local areas, making a difference everyday not only to the lives of others, but their own as well.

There is a great sense of achievement that comes from being a volunteer and there are many links between volunteering and health and well being.

Research has shown that volunteers report above average results in physical health, mental health and overall life satisfaction.

“Volunteering and community participation are core components in our health system – it is a vital part of civic engagement, and contributes to our community well-being.

“We see many people utilising our volunteer referral service who have come to us to live happier lives through volunteering,” said Adrienne Picone, CEO of Volunteering Tasmania 

“Whilst volunteering can’t cure mental health conditions, it can increase well being and act as an antidote to isolation,” she said.

This years theme is important to not only promote the benefits of volunteering to mental health but also the feel good aspect you get from helping others.

This advertising feature is sponsored by the following businesses. Click the links to learn more:

“Even in individuals already experiencing great mental health, volunteering often elicits a ‘Giver’s High’, which keeps them wanting to give their time to improve the lives of others,” she said.

“To be healthier and happier, research shows us that one of the best things we can do is to give back to others,” said Connie Digolis, CEO of the Mental Health Council of Tasmania.

“Volunteering reduces loneliness through increasing social connections and a more positive outlook. Ongoing volunteering is shown to contribute to overall better mental health,” she said.

There are plenty of volunteering options available throughout Tasmania, details of which can be found online at: http://www.volunteeringtas.org.au/. 

Or by contacting  Volunteering Tasmania on 6231 5550 or Freecall 1800 677 895. 

National Volunteer Week runs from May 9 to 15. 

Related: