Planning on volunteering

[JtimmyT]

I'm thinkinb of doing volunteering, not sure with who yet, either a wildlife trust or national park, but I'm nervpus and negative thoughts rush into me.

I can try reading my CCBT booklet, but it's temporary releif.

I get dizzy and lightheaded, I am currently getting medication for sinus issues, but the sore feeling like I got a cold startinv in the back palate and throat and dry nose is always there on and off, especially when at home.

Sometimes in my mind I fear I'm going to pass out or something, because of the symptoms.

Socialising, I'm afraid of appearing thick, too quiet and doing something daft. I have problems socialising, sometimes understanding people or knowing what to say, looking from here sat on my sofa, I feel anxious about it.

I only hear on one ear, will I need to put that down on the application form?

I like to try volunteering, because I feel it might help me mentally, I've never done volunteering before, and don't have much qualifications, except helping on the family farm. At the same time, I like to try it out, I'm scared of giving it a go.

[Agora1]

JtimmyT Go for it...Volunteering has always helped me get outside of myself. Go for something you enjoy doing. Taking that first step is the hardest thing. Once you have you will feel a self worthiness in helping humanity by helping yourself go forward. It's an accomplishment, a "feel good" feeling. Let us know what you decide to do. I think you'll be surprised at the positive results you will feel. My best and good luck xx

[Hopeful-Tinkerbell]

I feel like I want to do something too but yet my fear and lack of motivation prevent it. The worst thing that could happen is that you won’t like it or you won’t want to go back. I got a part time job. I work one night a week. It helps me having a set time and schedule because I don’t want to let them down if I don’t show up. It’s a forced activity. Often I skip the things that aren’t a necessity or just a want to do. I’m constantly cancelling things. A set schedule forces me to go. I think about quitting every time but I don’t. Yet. I enjoy it once I’m out. It’s just getting there that’s hard. I say go for it! Start slow. Do not put unrealistic eexpectations on your self. One day a week or even a month. Then slowly work your way up to a schedule that works for you. If it doesn’t work that’s okay too. You’ll never know unless you try. You can google volunteer opportunities in your area. Most are so happy for the help! Best of luck.

[gogogirl]

What is CCBT? Volunteering is a great way to give back. I do it myself at times- a nice way to be appreciated. Good for you!

[pinkplasticball]

I think most people, even those without anxiety disorders, can get nervous about trying new things, being afraid of not doing well or failing, or being embarrassed. Its a perfectly normal feeling to have. Although if you have an anxiety condition, these feelings may be amplified.

But as they say, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." I'd say go for it, take the first step. Try talking with the person taking your application. Maybe ask what all the position does, or about any special qualities the land may have.

Also, there's no shame in admitting you have trouble hearing. People want to be able to accommodate you, and you want to be understood and to understand them, so don't feel shame in just saying, "I have trouble hearing, can you please repeat that?" And they'll know in the future.

There is a chance things may not go well. Maybe you will have an experience that makes you feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. But then you'll know, this is what happened, and next time I should try this instead.

If you don't try, you'll be safe from that potential experience. But on the other hand, you'll never know what you missed out on. It's up to you to decide if the trade off is worth it.

But as a last note, if you think that it may affect you in a way that is very negative to your mental health, and may cause you to enter crisis mode, I'd definitely advise against it in that case. You know yourself better than anyone, so only you know if you'll be able to get through it even if it doesn't go as well as you would have liked.

Good luck, and whatever you do, I hope you end up satisfied in your decision, because when it all comes down to it, it's your life and you deserve to be happy no matter what you choose. ❤️

[Sprinkle1]

Hi, I like what PinkPlasticBall has to say. I have done volunteer work since I was a teenage. I have generally found people helpful at showing one the ropes. And I also would say I have a hearing problem, (which I also have) please try and catch me on my left side. I wish I could find my list of Volunteers Rights. I remember you have the right to be treated with dignity. You have the right to refuse certain work. And if you do not like the situation you have the right to quit. I am really ill with anxiety at this time, but once it lifts I will see what is available. So choose something that calls to you, and do not be afraid to ask for help, how are you going to learn otherwise. If they are decent people they will not judge you. If they are rude and unhelpful you can always walk away - you are a Volunteer. I wish you well, and my hat is off to you. Sending you strength, courage, energy and love, with peace. Sprinkle 1

[kenster1]

hi jimmy my advice would be to go for it.ive volunteered of and on for 20 years and over the last two its changed my life.onwards and upwards if you do.

[JtimmyT]

Thank you everyone for your inspiring messages, I'm going to give it a try, I've just signed an application form for the local national park, so hopefully all goes well from here. Thanks again really appreciate it!