Volunteering In Africa

[ashdawn8287]

Well I went and had lunch with this student group at a church I just joined today. I have being doing yoga and trying to figure out what exactly it is I want to do. I like helping, if it isn't obvious on here. During this healing process it has really opened up my eyes. My purpose now is to help others. As I was walking on campus a guy handed me a small bible (Bomb threat related maybe, I am not sure). And last night before I went to bed I prayed to God to help me help others. Today, I met a girl from Africa on campus who is trying to recruit volunteers to go to Africa for 10 days to help build sustainability in that country. I applied. I will know in about 5 days, I think. I am going to the meeting tomorrow.

Guys, I know PTSD sucks and I find helping others beneficial. Do you guys feel that helping others is beneficial to you during this process?

 

[Flyaway]

Yes, absolutely! I think it's easier to see solutions when there is a bit of distance from them. Finding solutions for others helps me understand what I need to heal. Plus it just makes me feel a bit better to think I might have made someone else feel better.

I think the Africa trip would be amazing! I've always wanted to do something like that. I really like the prayer you offered too.

 

[ashdawn8287]

I am hoping I get accepted. I will have to fund raise my own money though. I am just going to keep on praying I get accepted, I am able to raise the money, and I end up in the long run helping others. Funny how things work isn't it?

I am glad you liking help others too, that is great.

 

[therisa]

Ashdawn, there are two families that I help out, whenever I can, in my apartment building. By doing so, I am getting myself, exposed to other people, in a crowd situation, which can be, a very traumatic trigger, for me. Am hoping by doing this, I can lessen my sensitivity, while getting exercise, at the same time and be able to get back to a functioning level. Will admit at times, I have to force myself, just to leave my apartment and check the mailbox, in my building’s front lobby. But seeing a smile on someone else face, when I do this, is priceless and a better medicine for my soul, than a toxic anti-depressant. :)

 

[ashdawn8287]

Therisa I completely agree. I am so glad you help others around you. I know the feeling of not wanting to go to the mailbox, now I am fearless trying to go to Africa. Hang in there hon :).

 

[therisa]

Thank you, Ashdawn, and good luck with Africa.

 

[nomedic1]

Good luck Ash, hope you can do it, it is fulfilling helping others.

 

[Britt.f7]

That would be an amazing experience. I had a chance to be a court advocate for children but had to decline because of my chronic illness. Too unpredictable, and I wouldn't want to let a child down. I do think that helping others gets the mind off ones self. I know I enjoy it.

Good luck!!

 

[The Albatross]

I support my local animal shelter, I support my YMCAs, I support a friend by giving her respite care 2-3 times a week as she is caring for her mother with dementia/Alzheimers. I do volunteer commitments, and choose several each year.

Good for you and I hope you get accepted!

 

[Deleted member 1860]

I'd love to do something like that but I'm terrified of what could happen in a 3rd world country----I think I've read too many PTSD horror stories! That, and my time visiting a 3rd world country was not safe for me (one of those Central American countries where people rave about----when they visit the resorts----but the country itself is not safe)

 

[ashmoe]

My sister recently returned from Kenya. First, she was robbed of her personal belongings and was left penniless. She was also going to help the people. She stayed very sick, boils, cellulitis from scratching insect bites. It was a horrible experience. She also suffers from PTSD. I wouldn't recommend it. I volunteer in the US.

 

[ashdawn8287]

That is too bad. This organization keeps you safe. It is a new program they have been doing it for the last 3 years and nobody has been robbed or harmed in anyway and they have made numerous trips. It's through a university so they will keep us safe. So I am sorry for your sisters experience that is too bad, but I am going.