Effects of volunteering on the psychological wellbeing of undergraduate college students

Objective: The mental health of college students is declining at an alarming rate. Understanding behaviors linked to positive mental health outcomes and psychological wellbeing (PWB) are needed. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between volunteering and PWB. Participants/methods: Students (N = 741) completed an online survey assessing PWB and volunteerism (frequency and motives). Results: A positive correlation was found between PWB and volunteering frequency (r = 0.14, p < 0.001). Factors motivating volunteerism and PWB were associated: protective-to lessen negative feelings and/or avoid personal problems (r = 0.193), enhancement-self-oriented motivation (r = 0.237), social-develop relationships (r = 0.276), career-improve career prospects (r = 0.287), values-altruism (r = 0.348), and understanding-knowledge (r = 0.362), all p < 0.001. Conclusions: There is a positive correlation between PWB and volunteering frequency. Understanding the motivation for volunteering, and how those factors related to PWB provides valuable information that may help students understand the importance of volunteering for altruistic reasons but also for their own mental health and wellbeing.