September 20th, 2024
Staff Writer for Wake Up World
More people are seeking ways to alleviate mental health challenges without solely relying on medication. One innovative solution is Green Social Prescribing—an approach that connects individuals with nature-based activities to promote mental well-being. Recent research from the University of Exeter, in collaboration with several other universities, confirms that this method can significantly boost happiness and reduce anxiety.
What Is Green Social Prescribing?
Green Social Prescribing involves supporting people with mental health needs by encouraging them to engage in nature-based activities like gardening, conservation work, outdoor sports, and more. These activities offer a natural and effective remedy for mental health issues, allowing individuals to connect with the healing power of nature.
Professor Ruth Garside of the University of Exeter explains, “Green Social Prescribing is an effective way of supporting people with mental health. But this is just the beginning… there must be an ongoing commitment from policymakers to understand the needs of communities and enable more diverse people to connect with nature.”
How It Works
Participants can be referred to nature-based activities by GPs, social workers, or community mental health teams, but many also self-refer. Social Prescribing Link Workers help connect individuals to local community groups that offer emotional and practical support through nature-based programs. The activities vary, ranging from care farming and horticulture to outdoor therapy and exercise. This holistic approach engages individuals in meaningful, grounding activities that address their mental and physical well-being.
Transforming Mental Health Through Nature
In the recent £5.77 million study, 8,339 participants with mental health challenges participated in Green Social Prescribing programs across England. The results were remarkable—participants’ happiness and anxiety levels, initially below national averages, improved significantly. After engaging in nature-based activities, participants’ well-being aligned with or surpassed national averages. Life satisfaction and the feeling that life is worthwhile also saw substantial improvements.
One participant shared their experience: “After the group, I feel joyful, happy, calm. I have a sense of achievement and I feel my well-being increasing. I look forward to attending.”
Another participant, who found nature-based activities more effective than medication, said: “It works better than medication for me… most of my stuff is related to trauma, so NICE guidelines don’t recommend medication for borderline personality disorder. I have my counseling, and that is really valuable, but this is on par with that.”
Cost-Effective Mental Health Support
Not only does Green Social Prescribing improve mental health, but it’s also a cost-effective care method. At an average cost of £507 per participant, it’s cheaper than many traditional interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and early intervention for psychosis. The program can potentially reduce both NHS treatment costs and prescription drug use.
Dr. Annette Haywood, one of the study’s lead researchers, emphasized: “There is already a wealth of evidence to show the positive impact that nature and outdoor activities can have on mental and physical health… nature-based activities are a relatively cost-effective way to support people with a variety of mental health needs.”
The Broader Impact
The study also highlighted the program’s inclusive nature. Green Social Prescribing reached diverse populations—21% of participants were from ethnic minority groups, and 57% came from economically disadvantaged areas. Expanding access to nature-based activities, the program breaks down barriers and supports those who need it most.
GP Marion Steiner, part of one pilot site, underscored the transformative potential of this approach: “Connecting with nature is a lifelong resource with proven benefits for mental and physical health. But many of the patients I treat can’t currently access nature due to personal, social, and cultural barriers. That’s why Green Social Prescribing is so important.”
Why It Matters
Green Social Prescribing addresses the root causes of mental health challenges by reconnecting people with nature, offering them a sense of purpose and peace in their daily lives. Its benefits extend beyond mental health, lowering the risk of diseases like diabetes and depression. As the evidence grows, the hope is that this practice will become a cornerstone of mental health care.
Practical Ways to Incorporate Nature into Your Life
You don’t need a formal referral to experience the benefits nature can have on your mental health. Here are some simple ways to get started with Green Social Prescribing in your own life:
1. Daily Walks in Nature
Even a short walk in a local park or green space can lift your mood and reduce anxiety. Aim for 20-30 minutes of mindful walking, paying attention to the sounds, smells, and sights around you.
2. Gardening or Houseplants
Whether you have a large garden or a small apartment, tending to plants is a grounding, stress-relieving activity. If space is limited, start with houseplants or herbs on your windowsill. Research shows that caring for plants can boost your well-being.
3. Outdoor Exercise
Combine physical movement with nature by exercising outdoors. Activities like cycling, hiking, or even yoga in the park can help release endorphins and reconnect you with nature.
4. Join a Conservation or Community Garden Group
Volunteering with local environmental groups or community gardens gives you a sense of purpose and fosters social connections, which are vital for mental health.
5. Nature-Based Meditation or Mindfulness
Take your mindfulness practice outdoors. Find a quiet spot in nature to sit and meditate, focusing on your breath and the natural elements around you. The calm of nature can enhance your mindfulness practice.
6. Forest Bathing
Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, simply spend time in a wooded area and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. Studies show that forest environments reduce stress and improve overall mental health.
7. Outdoor Socializing
Instead of meeting friends at a cafe, suggest a walk in a park or a picnic in a green space. Combining socializing with nature is a great way to enhance your mood and build stronger relationships.
By making small changes to incorporate more nature into your daily routine, you can experience significant benefits for both your mental and physical well-being. Nature is one of the simplest, most accessible tools we have for improving our health.
Conclusion
The results of Green Social Prescribing speak for themselves: nature is not just a backdrop for our lives—it’s a vital part of our mental and emotional well-being. As governments and health agencies recognize the power of nature-based interventions, we could see a future where more people find healing, happiness, and health through nature.
Article Source
New research has found prescribing nature can improve happiness and reduce anxiety. – https://news.exeter.ac.uk
About the Author
Lily Anderson is an enthusiastic writer and curious investigator of the latest scientific developments. Driven by a strong desire to learn, she has a knack for simplifying complex concepts into engaging stories, making science accessible and interesting to a broad audience. Lily’s work is important for connecting specialists with the general public, sparking wonder, and fostering meaningful conversations about new scientific discoveries.
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