The Psychological Side of Volunteering

The Hidden Cost of Helping

When disaster strikes, volunteers are often the first to arrive. They help clear debris, comfort strangers, and provide essential supplies. Their bravery is visible. What is less often seen is the emotional toll their work can take.

Volunteers are seen as heroes, and rightly so. But many carry the emotional weight of what they have witnessed long after the disaster ends.

More Than Just Stress

Volunteering during a crisis can be incredibly meaningful. It brings a sense of purpose, connection, and the ability to make a difference during uncertain times. However, it can also be emotionally confronting. Volunteers may see significant damage, loss, and human suffering. They might hear heartbreaking stories, work in high-pressure conditions, and often go without proper rest. Many feel they need to push aside their own emotions to keep helping others. Over time, this can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, or symptoms similar to trauma. Even the most resilient people can feel overwhelmed by the emotional load.

Signs a Volunteer Might Be Struggling

Emotional stress is not always obvious. Sometimes it appears weeks or months after the event. Look out for these common signs:

• Constant fatigue, even with adequate sleep

• Irritability, emotional numbness, or mood swings

• Trouble sleeping or distressing dreams

• Feeling withdrawn or disconnected from others

• Loss of motivation or sense of purpose

Recognising these signs early is important. It allows for timely support and recovery.

What Helps: Supporting Volunteers Emotionally

With the right tools and support, volunteers are more likely to remain healthy, engaged, and effective. Here are some approaches that make a real difference:

DebriefingAfter a shift or deployment, it helps to talk with someone who understands. This could be a fellow volunteer, supervisor, or trained professional. Sharing experiences can release emotional pressure.

Peer SupportConnecting with others who have shared similar roles or experiences can provide comfort and validation. Peer-led support groups or informal check-ins work well.

Rest and RecoveryTaking breaks, even short ones, allows the mind and body to recover. Volunteers should be encouraged to rest without guilt or pressure to return too quickly.

Training and PreparationBasic training in mental health first aid or trauma-informed care helps volunteers feel more equipped. Understanding emotional risks reduces vulnerability and builds resilience.

Caring for the People Who Care

Volunteers give generously of their time, skills, and emotional energy. If we want them to continue doing this work safely, we must ensure they are supported in return.

Prioritising emotional wellbeing is not a luxury. It is a core part of community care. When volunteers are well, their impact lasts longer and reaches further.

Final Thoughts

Volunteering in disasters changes lives -

both for the people receiving support and for those giving it. The work is demanding, but it is also deeply rewarding.

By speaking openly about the emotional side of volunteering, we remove stigma and build stronger, more compassionate communities. Every volunteer is a person first. When we look after the people who show up in our hardest moments, we all come out stronger.