Consider volunteering a gift of friendship

The winter holidays can be a hectic time for some people. For those recovering from mental illness, this cheerful season can be especially stressful, often escalating feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Compeer of Johnson County matches caring adult volunteers with someone recovering from a mental illness in one-on-one friendships. Adults referred to Compeer are often alone and without support from family and friends. This support is a crucial component of mental health recovery, and especially important around the winter holidays.

Mental illness can happen to anyone. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 22 percent of American adults suffer from a diagnosable mental health disorder.

Mental illness has been called the loneliest illness. Compeer experiences show that volunteers can provide the comfort and motivation needed to help people in mental health recovery lead happy, productive lives. Friendships between volunteers and their friends offer an incredible opportunity to cheer two people at once. Research shows that volunteering helps reduce stress, especially valuable for so many around the holidays.

Volunteering for Compeer is as simple as going for a walk, having a conversation, or going to a movie. You can help change someone's life for the better and give the gift of friendship all year long. Training and support are provided to all volunteers.

For more information, call Karen Fox at (319) 338-7884, ext. 245 or visit www.compeerjohnson

countyiowa.org.

Jo Bowers

President

Compeer Program of Johnson County

Iowa City