Nature is so central to our psychological and emotional health that it’s almost impossible to realise good mental health for all without a greater connection to the natural world. For most of human history, we lived as part of nature.
Read : Why nature was the theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2021Research shows that nature is vital for our psychological and emotional health. As human beings, we have a fundamental need to connect with nature.
After being made redundant during lockdown, Caroline started wild swimming, which gave her a connection with nature that's helped her mental health.
Read : Connecting with nature by wild swimmingWWF and the Mental Health Foundation have produced this guide in collaboration, to help everyone make the most of the UK's natural spaces for our mental health and well-being.
Read : Thriving with NatureJulia Bradbury talks to us about how nature can lift her spirit and improve her well-being, as part of our Thriving with Nature work.
Read : How nature lifts my spiritWhat prevention means, preventative measures to help yourself, and changes society can make to prevent mental health problems.
Read : Prevention and mental healthIdeas and inspiration to help you connect with nature during the winter, as well as information on how engaging with wetlands can improve our wellbeing.
Read : Wetlands and wellbeingHeather, aged 62 (and a half), is a mum of 4, grandmother of 5 and a child at heart. She shares how walking in nature helps her mental health.
Read : Walking in nature is my therapyRuth, a participant of Standing Together Cymru, helps tend a communal garden at her sheltered housing complex in Newport, South East Wales. Ruth has had a ‘lifelong affinity with nature’, and she wants other people to feel the benefits.
Read : My lifelong connection with natureMichael shares his experience of how connecting with nature with his friends in Northern Ireland helps him to feel less alone.
Read : Connecting with nature and friends