The benefits of being around nature for our mental health are being celebrated in a range of ways during Mental Health Awareness Week between 10 and 16 May.
The theme for Mental Health Awareness Week is nature and its central role for our mental health. Research by the Mental Health Foundation shows that good mental health depends on us being able to connect with nature in some way.
During the week we will be highlighting the many opportunities of how people can connect with nature in North Lincolnshire and local mental health support that is available.
Connecting with nature doesn’t have to be complicated or planned. You could go out for a walk, stop and listen to the birdsong, smell the freshly cut grass or take care of a house plant.
North Lincolnshire is also the perfect location to cycle in, with many planned routes that take you through green areas of our towns and into the countryside. Find out more about local cycle routes on our website.
This month is also National Walking Month, so now is the ideal time to find out more about walking in North Lincolnshire, which you can also do on our website.
Find out more about Mental Health Awareness week at the Mental Health Foundation website.
The following resources are available to support getting in touch with nature:
- The Mental Health Foundation has produced a ‘Thriving With Nature’ guide, making the most of our natural spaces. They have also produced some top tips, which can be accessed on their website.
- The Visit North Lincolnshire website has information on our outdoor spaces, cycling routes, and walking.
- National Walking Month is celebrating the benefits of walking for our mental health, our fitness and the environment. Get inspired on the Living Streets website.
- There are a wide range of books available to borrow about nature and mental health through Borrowbox, via North Lincolnshire Libraries. Find out more on our website.
There are also some simple steps everyone can take to promote their mental wellbeing. Five Ways to Wellbeing is a way of making sure our minds and bodies remain healthy while we stay safe, through learning, connecting, giving, being active and taking notice. Read more on our website.
