MURFREESBORO, TN – A recent poll in 2024 revealed that 43% of U.S. adults report increased feelings of anxiety compared to previous years, marking a 6% rise from the year before. Common sources of this anxiety include financial difficulties, job stress, sleep deprivation, and the challenge of maintaining friendships. Alarmingly, only about 25% of adults sought help from a mental health professional in the past year, highlighting a gap in support for those struggling with anxiety.
In response to this growing issue, organizations like Barnabas Vision are working to foster community connections that can help alleviate anxiety. Chrisln Ledbetter, the Director of Development and Donor Engagement at Barnabas Vision, emphasizes the importance of building supportive relationships to combat feelings of isolation and anxiety. The nonprofit, located in Murfreesboro, encourages individuals to volunteer, thereby creating opportunities for meaningful interactions.
Research from Dr. Megan Hays, a clinical psychologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, supports the notion that volunteering can stimulate the brain’s reward system. Engaging in acts of generosity not only promotes positive emotions but also provides a sense of purpose. Dr. Hays notes that these activities can lead to improved mental health, including lower blood pressure and a stronger immune system.
Barnabas Vision offers various volunteer opportunities, from assisting with housing needs to forming friendships with elderly community members. These efforts are essential in a culturally diverse area like Rutherford County, where many residents may feel disconnected from family and friends.
To encourage community involvement, Barnabas Vision has organized a come-and-go event on Saturday, April 26, from 4 to 7 p.m. This family-friendly gathering will include a panel of guest speakers discussing the impact of volunteering, the role of local government, how nonprofits assist those in need, and the contribution of churches to community outreach. David Coggin, co-founder of Barnabas Vision, will highlight stories of gratitude and the value of volunteering.
The event will feature free BBQ, ice cream, and entertainment for children, including a bouncy house. While registration is not mandatory, organizers suggest RSVPing to help plan for the turnout. This gathering aims to demonstrate how volunteering can be a remedy for anxiety and a pathway to building lasting connections.
In summary, as anxiety rates rise, volunteering emerges as a practical solution to foster community support and improve mental health. By engaging in volunteer work, individuals not only help others but also find purpose and connection, which are vital for reducing anxiety.
Mark your calendars for April 26 to participate in this enriching experience offered by Barnabas Vision, where you can contribute to the community while taking a step towards better mental health.
