The first couple of days were awkward for Jane, but eventually she looked forward to her volunteer days. Soon, she began to realize that the older people and even the animals appreciated what she was doing. They didn't care much about her depression. They just looked forward to seeing her. In short order, Jane felt a little better about her future, and her tolerance for medication actually improved.
Compassion is part of our wiring.
When infants cry in the nursery, others also begin to cry. When a child in nursery school gets reprimanded, all the children feel frightened and concerned. Children respond to pain in others. To deny or inhibit that compassion interferes with mental health. To care for others releases endorphins, helps us feel better about ourselves, and enables us to feel as though we belong.