Intermountain Health Volunteer Diane Slagswold

article by Maria Weidich | photos by Littles + Bigs Photography

We often think of volunteering as something we give- such as our time, energy, or hands- to help others. But as local Behavioral Health Therapist Astghik Poghosyan reminds us, giving back gives so much in return. It lifts our spirits, strengthens our sense of purpose, and even serves as a form of self-love.

With over thirty years of experience in the mental health field and currently serving at Intermountain Health, Astghik explained how volunteering impacts both the brain and body. Volunteering improves physical and mental health because it releases the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters, often referred to as our “happiness hormones.”

Stagnant lives don’t do us any good, she added. “We encourage movement because the movement helps produce these hormones, like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which help support recovery when dealing with mental health symptoms, like depression and anxiety.”

In many ways, volunteering is like exercise for the mind and body. It triggers the same positive chemical responses while also enhancing self-esteem, fostering social connections, and creating a sense of purpose. Studies also show it can even lower blood pressure and contribute to longevity.

More often than not, people find themselves volunteering and giving back in areas where they are passionate. “In my experience, when people volunteer, they are doing things that already bring them joy. They are investing their time and energy into things they genuinely enjoy, without any obligation in the process.”

Astghik emphasized that humans are social creatures. “We need social connections, even introverts,” she added. “And when you explore how you can give back in the community, you meet new people, build new relationships, and connect with that sense of social belonging.”

Volunteering also builds a strong sense of purpose. It’s common for those who have benefited from volunteers to become volunteers themselves. “They are coming to the field as an expert,” Astghik said. “Their knowledge or shared information is not wasted; they are able to help someone else with that background because they’re already experienced.”

For someone already feeling burned out or overwhelmed, volunteering can still be beneficial, Astghik said, as long as boundaries are respected. “As long as we don’t take on more than we can handle, the act of kindness won’t create additional stress,” she said. “I’ve never had someone come to my office complaining about something good they did. Don’t deprive what is working for you, but if you need to set limits, that’s healthy.”

“Giving back also helps us show love for ourselves, and that’s something we often lack,” Astghik explained. “Most people lack self-love and taking the time to give ourselves things that bring joy. Giving back is also a way of visiting with yourself – understanding what you like and what you want to share with others.”

“All that goodness that you have, like your skills, your knowledge, your compassion, or even things you possess that need a good home – when you share those from a place of authenticity and self-love, that’s what makes you feel good.”

Originally printed in the December 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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