MENTAL HEALTH OF VOLUNTEERS

Abstract

 Volunteering has become a hallmark of a civilized civil society, a symbol of humanized thinking and consciousness, altruism and selflessness. The twenty-first century has witnessed a real volunteer boom, with humanitarian and charitable manifestations in virtually all spheres of public life, and institutional forms represented by both relatively small initiative groups and powerfully organized structures. In today's crisis situations (military conflicts, pandemics, and humanitarian disasters), the role of volunteers is of paramount importance, as they provide support and assistance to those who need it most, often working in extreme conditions and under high levels of emotional stress. However, prolonged activity in such an environment can lead to significant physical and psychological exhaustion, which in turn affects the effectiveness of the tasks and the overall well-being of the volunteer. The relevance of the topic is due to the growing number of cases of emotional burnout, stress disorders, depression and anxiety among volunteers, which is confirmed by numerous studies and practical observations. Volunteers often neglect their own needs and mental health, focusing on helping others, which creates additional risks to their psycho-emotional state. The purpose of the study. The purpose of the study is to analyze the current state of scientific understanding of the mental health of volunteers as a subject of psychological science. Methodology. A set of general scientific methods and special scientific approaches was used: analysis and general comparison (studying the state and level of research of the problem; understanding of scientific approaches and methodological principles that have been used previously; highlighting previously unexplored aspects; highlighting key points); systematization and generalization (structuring the research materials and summarizing the results and results of the work); synthesis (correct comparison and analysis of the selected source base and study of best practices of volunteers). Scientific novelty. It consists in systematizing and summarizing the threats and challenges to the mental health of volunteers and substantiating strategies for overcoming them. Conclusions. 1) volunteer activities, especially in crisis conditions, are emotionally and physically exhausting, including constant contact with traumatic events, heavy workload, lack of clear boundaries between work and personal life, and a sense of responsibility to those they help; 2) the main risks to the mental health of volunteers are emotional burnout, chronic stress, anxiety and depression; 3) the most effective measures for maintaining appropriate health are the organization of regular psychological counseling and stress management trainings; introduction of a support system within volunteer organizations; development of flexible work schedules to avoid overload; instilling self-help and stress management skills; implementation of a policy of care for the psychological well-being of volunteer organizations' members and ensuring access to professional assistance.