Compeer Helps Persons With Mental Illness

The winter holidays can be a hectic time for people as they anxiously try to find the perfect gift and decorate their homes. For those recovering from mental illness, this cheerful season can be especially stressful. That's why Compeer of Family Services of Chemung County matches caring adult volunteers with someone of the same gender who is improving from mental illness in one-on-one friendship. Adults referred to Compeer are often alone and without the fundamental support of family and friends, which are a crucial component of mental health recovery.

Mental illness has been called the "loneliest illness," and Compeer believes that volunteers can provide the comfort and inspiration needed to help people in mental health recovery lead happy, productive lives. From talking over mugs of hot chocolate to watching a favorite holiday movie, the relationship between a volunteer and his or her friend is an unbelievable way to bring goodness into the hearts of two people at once. Friendship is a powerful medicine, and research shows that volunteering helps reduce pressure.