You volunteer because you want to give your time and energy to a worthy cause. But you may be improving your health, too.

In recent years, the interest in research measuring the benefits of positive experience has grown. It is a challenge to determine the physical and mental profit from having an improved mental state, whether it is the result of prayer, meditation, touch, or giving to others. However, research has concluded that in some cases petting a dog can lower blood pressure and regulate heart rate or that people who pray or have people pray for them get better faster than people who don’t. Studies involving the effects of volunteering have similar results.

Volunteering is good for people, particularly those with a chronic illness that can be isolating. Volunteering has a social component that allows you an easy way to meet new people and use and learn new skills. This can help combat loneliness and depression, common in people with arthritis.

A British study published in the medical journal Arthritis Care & Research showed that volunteer leaders of arthritis self-management courses reported feeling happier and more confident. They also showed increased self-esteem and communication skills and a reduction in depression.

Being a volunteer can help you change your life as well as the lives of those you are helping.