Connect With Nature - Mental Health Awareness Week 2021
Nature and our mental health
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. It is only in the last five generations that so many of us have lived and worked in a context that is largely separated from nature. And it is only since a 1960s study in the US found that patients who were treated in hospitals with a view of nature recovered faster, that science has started to unpack the extraordinary health benefits.
Healthwatch Darlington's Volunteer Story
We spoke to one of our volunteers at Healthwatch Darlington who kindly shared their thoughts on this years mental health awareness week, what it means to them and some photos.
Last March, my world changed overnight, as it did for many people. I could no longer fill my days with my 3 voluntary jobs, and having found myself in a new town where I didn’t know anyone, I turned to nature. I went for my daily allowed walk, every day without fail, walking up to 12km a day, exploring new countryside. As I watched the season slowly turn from Spring into early Summer, I saw buds grow and then flower, snowdrops, then crocus, then daffodils. I watched frogspawn appear, burst into tiny tadpoles then little hopping frogs. I watched a pair of swans build their nest, guard it day after day, then many weeks later, fluffy little cygnets appeared. Yes, not all of the cygnets survived. And yes, the flowers bloomed and died, but others took their place. While the human world seemed in crisis, Nature continued on, unfurling, its rhythm unceasing. I found myself observing Nature with fresh eyes, and while others around me grew more fearful, my anxious, depressed mind was soothed, both by my walking, one foot in front of the other, and by a childlike wonder at the natural world breathing around me.
And now I’ve gone back to my jobs, and we all become busy once again, I know how vital it is for me to keep lacing up my walking shoes and heading out towards nature.
Healthwatch Darlington's Staff Member Story
One member of our team kindly shared why nature means so much to them, ideas for children and some photos to inspire you.
Spending time outdoors has always meant so much to me as an individual, especially as I lead a busy lifestyle as a working Mum. Slowing down, connecting with nature and taking the time to relax is key in calming us in a frantic world.
However, my time outdoors has increased over the last few years as I feel this helps my children who have so much energy. The opportunity for them to let off steam, be free, explore their surroundings and find out about nature has endless benefits.
If we can't go anywhere far we make use of the surrounding countryside, nearby woodland areas and parks which is just as beneficial. Connecting with nature doesn't have to cost much and can be easily reached in most areas. Nature can even be fun in your own homes. In the past we have loved creating nature picture collages using leaves, twigs, daisies and feathers collected on a walk.
The key is to be creative and use your imagination to explore nature in anyway possible, the list really is endless.
Local nature spaces
In Darlington and the surrounding area there are many green spaces such as parks, nature reserves, country walks and woodlands. Find out more and visit one today:
Local parks and green spaces in Darlington
Countryside and town walks
More walking inspiration from Lets Go Tees Valley
Local woodland areas from Woodlands Trust
Extra support
Sometimes nature alone isn't enough to help us. You can find support by visiting our previous advice & information pages, Living Well Darlington or by using the Hub of Hope.
Here are a list of suggestions that may be helpful:
Samaritans are available 24/7 call 116 123
Talking Changes call 0191 333 3300
Text SHOUT to 85258
Visit YoungMinds for information
If you are aged 11-18 and live in Darlington sign up to Kooth
Contact Darlington Mind if you are an adult of young person - 01325 283169
Contact Man Health if you are over the age of 18 - 01388 320023
