“Blue Monday” described by many pundits and psychologists as the most depressing day of the year is on Monday 17 January 2011, but research from the UK’s leading volunteering charity, CSV shows that volunteering can combat January blues. Traditionally, the third Monday of the year is a day of bad weather, fading Christmas memories, mounting credit bills, failed New Years resolutions and general lack of motivation.

Independent research conducted by ICM and commissioned by CSV shows that:

• Up to half of people (48%) who volunteer feel less depressed.
• 63% of 25-34 year olds report that volunteering helps them feel less stressed.
• Just under half of the population feel happier when they undertaken some form of physical exercise, such as outdoor conservation or gardening.
• 71% of volunteers who offer their professional skills and experience to others say volunteering helps combat depression.
• 62% of over 65’s say volunteering reduces stress.

Speaking about the positive effect that volunteering can have on general happiness and wellbeing, psychologist and broadcaster Gladeana McMahon says: “Over half of all people say that volunteering to help others makes them feel happier. It’s clear that keeping physically and mentally active can often improve your state of mind. There’s also a lot of fun to be had that is likely to put a smile back on your face.”

CSV has a menu of volunteering ideas as we head into the European Year of the Volunteer. Make 2011 the year you volunteer and make new friends, feel happier and less stressed:

• Dig out your garden spades and support CSV Action Earth in spring 2011. The campaign has benefited from support from Morrisons and Scottish National Heritage to help thousands of people protect endangered wildlife, clear allotments and create “green” spaces in the community.  Volunteers up and down the country will be making a positive difference in the local area. Sign up to register your interest today from CSV Action Earth; visit www.csv.org.uk/actionearth
   
• If you’re aged between 16 – 35 years old, why not give full time volunteering a go! Volunteers can start their 4 - 12 month placement at any time during the year and are given the opportunity to work on exciting projects supporting homeless people, socially excluded people, disabled people, elderly and others. For more information on gap year volunteering visit, look at our website at www.csv.org.uk/gapyear or call 0800 374 991
   
• Knit gloves and scarves for soldiers in Afghanistan, help children read at your local school or mentor a child who needs some guidance. Contact our Retired and Senior Volunteer Programme on 020 7643 1385 or visit www.csv-rsvp.org.uk.

To find out more about CSV volunteering opportunities go to www.csv.org.uk  or ring 020 7278 6601.

Further press enquiries contact: Francesca Toma or Jason Tanner on 020 7812 0037 / 38 or email ftoma@csv.org.uk / jtanner@csv.org.uk  or 07966 16868 / 07941 433598.

Notes for editors:

1.    CSV (Community Service Volunteers) creates opportunities for people to take an active part in the life of their communities through volunteering, training and community action. Every year CSV helps transform the lives of over 1 million people. Last year 165,666 people gave their time as volunteers through CSV. The charity worked with 13,423 learners of all ages.  www.csv.org.uk  

2.     CSV commissioned ICM to undertake independent research surrounding health, happiness and stress throughout Britain in 2009 and 2004.