The Importance of Walking Groups in Mental Health Services
As we become more reliant on technology and spend less time outdoors, our society has become increasingly removed from the natural world. Some experts argue that we have an innate biological need for connecting with nature, and evidence shows that simply being in nature has benefits for mental health, such as decreased stress, improved concentration, and enhanced mood.
Ecotherapy, an emerging field, promotes therapeutic methods, benefiting both human and environmental health. By acknowledging nature’s positive impact on us, it suggests a reciprocal relationship, fostering increased awareness and concern for the natural world.
“I lost some weight, saw some new places, and had fun with friends. I feel better about things. I can do things that I thought I couldn’t.”
Mood Walks Participant
Regular physical activity is important for maintaining physical health and psychological well-being. It’s particularly important for those at risk of Serious Mental Illness (SMI), as physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, alleviate stress, enhance mood and self-esteem, and improve energy levels.
However, individuals at risk of SMI often face barriers to engagement, such as limited income, lack of transportation, and fear of stigma. These factors can hinder participation in mainstream exercise programs.
As community mental health services focus on recovery, integrating activities like walking groups becomes an important part of support.
Time in green space helps lower overall risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. It also reduces the risk of chronic respiratory diseases, asthma and mortality from lung disease. [The health benefits of the great outdoors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of greenspace exposure and health outcomes]
People who sat, walked, and relaxed in the forest for four hours dropped their blood pressure by over 10 points. [Donovan 2013]
People who live around more trees have a lower risk of illness and death from pneumonia and bronchitis. [Donovan 2013]
Walking groups provide people with the opportunity to spend time in their community, while feeling supported in exploring their environment. Groups allow participants to develop communications skills, expand social ties, and become more comfortable in social settings.
4 in 5 kids
feel more confident and will try new things after they participate in outdoor nature activities. [Children and Nature – UCL and The Wildlife Trusts Full Report]
83%
found that being in nature made them feel calm and relaxed. [Sheldrake, Ruth Amos, Reiss 2019]
1 extra day
in a park per week steadily increases a child’s resilience against stress. [Razani 2019]
Kids who grew up around more green space had a significantly lower risk of developing psychiatric illness as adults.[Flouri, Papachristou, and Midouhas 2018]
When trees and plants are visible from classroom windows, students have higher standardized test scores and graduation rates. [Matsuoka 2010]
Children who play in a greened school ground are more cooperative, communicate better and have a decrease in aggressive behaviour. [Dyment 2005]
