Mental Health Solicitors

A review into a nature-based mental health therapy has found that those with a mental health condition may benefit from carrying out horticultural past-times.

The study published by Natural England and carried out by the University of Essex and mental health charity Mind found that taking part in nature-based activities helps people who are suffering from mental health conditions – and may contribute to a reduction in levels of anxiety, stress and depression.

The report suggests making greater use of “green care” to help people suffering from mental health conditions, which are increasing – in England, at least one in four people will experience a significant mental health problem at some point during their lives.

The new report suggests that green care interventions can provide an increasingly important and cost-effective way of supporting mental health services.

The report focuses on the three main green care interventions that are currently helping people in England who have mental ill health: care farming, environmental conservation and social and therapeutic horticulture.

The report presents evidence that projects in each of these areas are already making a difference to mental health patients’ lives – and may bring a range of positive benefits for those with existing mental ill health, including a reduction in depression, anxiety and stress, as well as an improvement in dementia-related symptoms.

The report also shows that people involved in green care activities have a greatly increased level of social contact and inclusion – as well as a sense of belonging and personal achievement.

Environment Minister Rory Stewart said:

“Mental health is one of the most serious and complex issues that we face in Britain today – and it is great that we now have clearer scientific evidence that nature is so beneficial for our minds and our sense of self.

“As part of our £900 million Countryside Stewardship scheme, we are supporting projects like care farms, providing effective recovery to those in need.”

Natural England’s Chief Strategy and Reform Officer, Alan Law, said:

“This report highlights how nature makes a real difference to the quality of people’s daily lives.

“It shows what we can do to improve people’s wellbeing, working through new partnerships and offering new services.

“There is now compelling evidence to show that contact with nature and the outdoors improves physical health and mental wellbeing.

“Natural England is committed to find ways to help more people access the benefits that come through practical experiences in the outdoors.”
Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors
Duncan Lewis is the UK’s largest provider of Legal Aid mental health services and can advise mental health patients on a wide range of issues – including access to NHS mental health services and detention under the Mental Health Act.

Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors regularly visit NHS hospitals and police stations to advise on mental health law – and are available nationwide at short notice for hospital and police station appointments.

In some cases, Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors may be able to advise the nearest relative or carer of a mental health patient on a range of issues, including initiating treatment reviews where appropriate.

For expert legal advice on mental health law, call the Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors Helpline on 0333 772 0409.