Volunteering Conquered Naomi’s Panic Attacks
Volunteering conquered Naomi’s panic attacks and transformed her life. This summer, we’ve crafted three mini-guides to show you how volunteering can improve mental health, strengthen communities, and pave the way to employment.
I was consumed by anxiety, unable to attend my lessons without feeling overwhelmed. Just the thought of being questioned by the teacher triggered uncontrollable anxiety. My journey to recovery began with the support of CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services), but it wasn’t just therapy that turned my life around. Finding my passion—helping others—made an incredible difference.
Volunteering was a cornerstone of my recovery journey. Over the past year, I’ve engaged in various volunteering opportunities, which have bolstered my confidence and given me a sense of purpose. I started small, volunteering online, and as my confidence grew, I ventured into face-to-face volunteering.
That’s when I discovered Fixers, an organization empowering young people to amplify their voices. Though initially lacking confidence to address mental health education, I found a platform to make a difference. In March, I attended my first Fixers meeting to discuss my project ideas. Meeting new people was daunting, but it was a transformative moment—discussing my passions revealed a newfound confidence.
In August, we filmed my project, creating a resource to help young people recognize signs of mental illness and support their peers. I was supported by friends who helped on the day, and through this experience, I realized the strength of my supportive network.
Later, I filmed a broadcast piece with ITV Wales. Initially apprehensive, I felt supported and gained confidence throughout the process. Volunteering flipped a switch, turning off my anxiety.
The night of the broadcast was exhilarating, knowing my efforts were appreciated and impactful. My Fixers film and workshops became a turning point, boosting my confidence and unveiling a passion I aim to pursue as a career. Delivering mental health workshops in schools became a reality I never imagined possible.
Volunteering significantly improved my mental health, becoming an integral part of my life. Whenever I struggle, volunteering is my go-to solution, not something I’d give up. It’s often the opposite—I dive deeper into volunteering when challenges arise.
Explore how volunteering can improve your mental health and see how volunteering not only changed my life - it saved it.
We have 20,000 UK volunteering opportunities on the vInspired Exchange. Log your hours for an award, receive £500 funding through Cashpoint for new community projects, and find work through Task Squad. There’s never been a better time to make a difference.