Civilsamhällets bidrag till existentiell hälsa

Abstract

Existential health has become a disputed concept. In this article, I discuss possible connections between existential health and volunteer work based on the 2024 population survey of civic engagement at Marie Cederschiöld University. The respondents’ existential health is determined based on their self-report of belonging to society, being needed in society and being satisfied with the life they live. Based on these indicators, there is a correlation between good existential health and frequent volunteer work, where fellowship and action emerge as central aspects of the conceivable significance of volonteer work. Civil society can provide arenas for community as well as a space to speak and act according to one’s own beliefs. Non-profit organizations could also have the potential to contribute to existential health beyond economic benefit, societal benefit and dominant life ideals.