Wellness@Work: Why giving back is good for your health
Volunteering has been proven to help reduce depression, boost self-confidence and even help you live longer.
By Rebekah Blanchard
Director, Volunteer Services, USA Health
Volunteers fill much-needed roles at USA Health, but numerous studies show that giving back can result in better physical and mental health, which benefits the person giving back. Volunteering has been proven to help reduce depression, boost self-confidence and even help you live longer. People who share their time have lower mortality rates and better overall health than people who don’t volunteer. Finding a niche where you can give your time and talents also provides you with an instant support system, which can combat loneliness and depression.
Volunteering also benefits the person’s overall well-being. Knowing you are making a difference can make you happier, and it brings fun to your life! Volunteering is a great way to feel connected and give back to your community. It can provide you with a sense of purpose and accomplishment, and it’s also a good way to meet new people, make connections and develop new skills.
Volunteers play a vital role within the healthcare team by providing non-medical support services. These services help improve the patients’ overall hospital experiences. Some of these services include greeting guests, escorting patients to service areas, providing clerical support, offering comfort care to patients and families, and assisting with other non-medical patient requests as needed.
Volunteering in a hospital helps individuals gain a better understanding and in-depth knowledge of healthcare. Those considering a career in healthcare can gain firsthand experience and learn more about the different roles beyond those of doctors and nurses. Everyone plays a part in a patient’s recovery, and the volunteer can see how all of the parts work together before choosing what is of interest.
USA Health employees are not eligible to participate in the volunteer program at the hospitals, but other adult and college-age volunteers are needed. After completing an application and submitting required health documentation, volunteers attend an orientation session. Background checks are completed on everyone who applies.
The time commitment is a four-hour shift once a week to be completed on the same day and at the same time for six months. After six months, they can choose whether to continue volunteering.
Positions are available at Children’s & Women’s Hospital in the Treehouse, the pediatric emergency department, labor and delivery, the NICU, and the Mother/Baby unit.
At University Hospital, volunteers are needed in patient access, outpatient surgery, the emergency department, and with the Jolly Trolley Cart, which is used to distribute comfort-care items.
The Mitchell Cancer Institute relies on Chemo Sabe volunteers to support and encourage patients and caregivers while they are undergoing treatment. Commitments are one year for adults and less for students.
Learn more about volunteering at USA Health.
USA Health employees who are interested in giving back are encouraged to check with a favorite charity or visit the United Way of Southwest Alabama for local volunteer opportunities.
How can you lead a longer, better life? Follow weekly Wellness@Work tips from USA Health Integrative Health and Wellness. We cover ways you can eat better, move better, be more mindful, and find more balance to support your optimal health and well-being. Learn more at usahealthsystem.com/wellness.
