Volunteering and extreme sensitivity
Hi guys,
I (23 F) just finished my studies and before starting my job as a teacher in September, I am considering volunteering in an animal shelter.
To give a bit of context, I highly suspect I have autism and have been diagnosed with PTSD, but don't have the money to seek a diagnosis for autism yet. I have periods during which I struggle with my mental health really bad.
My main special interest is animals. I love them. So much. All of them. I thought volunteering would be nice because it would give me a sense of purpose and nothing sounds better than spending time amongst animals. It's like I can truly be myself around them. Bad day? See an Animal? Great day then !
Missions include playing with cats and walking the dogs.
However, I am EXTREMELY sensitive as a person, especially as you might have guessed when it comes to animals. I looked over on the website of the association and saw a dog that no one wants and has been over there for 10 years. I cried. How could I not?
I know myself and it could go either way, it could make me the happiest or send me in a depressive episode.
I also know I'll struggle with intense guilt once I'll start working and won't be able to volunteer anymore because of my lack of energy.
Basically : Should I volunteer to make me happy or is it too "risky"?
I thought I'd give posting here a shot since I think the neurodivergent community would be the best at understanding why I'm torn.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated, fellow animal lovers and/or autistic folks. :)
PS: I have two cats at home (my absolute babies) so I can't take foster kittens or anything.