For lots of people, volunteering, or regularly dedicating a specific amount of time to focus purely on another person or cause, can be a useful distraction technique when they are feeling anxious or low. When you know you’ve helped someone, it can feel really satisfying and remind you of things you are good at which you may have forgotten about. This could be something small like making a cup of tea for a family member or something bigger like starting a new voluntary job. Find what fits your life and makes sense for you.
Having a purpose is something that can save me when I’m in my darkest moments. I volunteered for a charity for a long time and it was really helpful knowing I was needed somewhere once a week. It reminded me of other things about me apart from just my mental health problems. It was also something I could put on my CV to help me get a job in the future
There are so many different kinds of voluntary roles you can do from helping an elderly person with their iPad, to stroking animals at the local animal rescue centre or putting up posters around your town for people who’ve gone missing. Find an opportunity local to you on the Do-it website, the VInspired website or by visiting your local NCVO volunteer centre.
And, if you take care of your family in your spare time or are responsible for caring responsibilities, please get into contact with your local Carers charity and remember you do have rights as a Young Carer, which you can view on the NHS website.
In the following video, Young Champion, Sophie, talks about how volunteering, including here at the Centre, helps her manage her mental wellbeing: