I can fully endorse service missions.  I'm currently serving as an Area Medical Advisor covering 13 missions in Idaho, Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, and Canada.

Many young missionaries really struggle with anxiety, depression, autism, and/or ADHD.  Some of these missionaries do indeed blossom as proselyting missionaries.  But, in my experience, the majority really struggle - and their struggles also impact their companions.

I would encourage young prospective missionaries - and especially their parents! - to give serious consideration to service missions.

Our Savior served many with His voice - teaching and testifying.

He also served many others with His hands - healing and helping.  

Proselyting missionaries are the voice of the Lord.  Service missionaries are the hands of the Lord.  Neither is above the other.  Service missionaries typically live at home, they are part of the mission where their home is, and some of them also go with the proselyting missionaries to do some teaching a few days a week in the evenings.

Service missionaries are real missionaries.  They are NOT "less than."  Remember, Ammon in the Book of Mormon was a service missionary before he was a proselyting missionary.

There are countless ways to serve in the Lord's Kingdom!