Mental Health Awareness Week (May 10th - 16th) is an annual event when there is an opportunity for the whole of the UK to focus on achieving good mental health.
Mental Health Awareness Week (May 10th - 16th) is an annual event when there is an opportunity for the whole of the UK to focus on achieving good mental health. The Mental Health Foundation started the event 21 years ago, this year the theme is nature.
Mark Rowland Chief Executive of The Mental Health Foundation talks about how the evidence available shows the benefits of nature on our mental health and well-being.
“During Mental Health Awareness Week 2021, we will pull together the evidence that demonstrates the powerful benefits of nature for our mental health. We will look at nature’s unique ability to not only bring consolation in times of stress but also increase our creativity, empathy and a sense of wonder”.
Groundwork North Wales and Wild Ground, work with individuals and communities across North Wales to improve well-being. We work on improving local green space, reducing waste, and protecting the natural environment, these spaces can then be utilised to the benefit of individuals and community’s well-being.
In 2019-2020 Groundwork North Wales Group through our projects and volunteering were able to assist in;
- 2432 people engaging with the natural environment
- 7406 young people engaging in outdoor activities
- 462kg waste removed from public spaces
- 47874 people benefitting from public spaces improved
- 674,662m2 land was improved or maintained
This work provides opportunities for individuals and communities to connect with nature, opportunities to reduce stress and balance mood.
We receive feedback from our project participants and volunteers on how taking part in these activities in the natural environment has had a positive impact on them.
“It’s a great feeling to be part of a group, I have learnt new skills and the volunteering gives me a purpose in life. It’s a great way to socialise so I don’t become lonely” Harry – Groundwork North Wales volunteer
“I really enjoy working with the group of volunteers and being outdoors.” Cameron Cook – Our Back Yard Project volunteer
The Mental Health Foundation say that stories are the best tools to influence change. Through this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week they want to demonstrate nature’s role in bringing solace and joy to individuals lives, otherwise it will remain undervalued and under-utilised.
Let’s continue to share how nature has benefited your mental health and well-being. Pop a comment on our socials @GwkNthWales and tag it #ConnectWithNature, or send us an email [email protected]
To keep up to date with Groundwork North Wales projects and volunteering opportunities you can visit www.groundworknorthwales.org.uk or look for Groundwork North Wales on your social media.