It has been proven that getting outside, into green spaces, forests and generally amongst nature, can help relieve us of stress, mild anxiety, fatigue and low mood. The act of getting outdoors to treat these conditions is called ecotherapy.
Mental Wellbeing Hub
Stay healthy, both physically and mentally with a little help from nature
An Introduction to Mental Wellbeing
Each year, one in four of us will experience a mental health problem of some kind. Anyone can suffer from mental health problems, some groups are more likely than others and COVID-19 has fuelled an increase in people suffering from mental health related illnesses.
Poor mental health is nothing to be ashamed of, nor should it be something you keep from others. It's important to speak out if you're feeling down - never bottle up your feelings.
Articles
Keep calm and carry on camping: the benefits of an outdoor holiday
Is it time to switch off, in various meanings of the phrase, and discover the great outdoors? There's much evidence to suggest that taking a break in natural surrounding on a camping holiday can have a positive impact on mental health...
Digital Detox - 6 Reasons Why
Camping is the perfect way to switch off from technology and give yourself a break with a digital detox. With limited electric options for charging and in some cases limited signal, it is easy to switch off your phone and there are lots of reasons why you should.
Other useful resources
Where to get help & advice
Each of the four devolved administrations within the UK have their own systems and websites offering help, advice and information, if and when you need it. You can call your GP if you would like to discuss any struggles or concerns. If you live outside of the UK, contact your local health clinic.
Call 111 for non-urgent advice from a NHS medical advisor.
Visit 111.nhs.uk and use the online help tool.
Samaritans
Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.
England NHS Every Mind Matters
Scotland Clear Your Head
Wales Public Health Wales
Northern Ireland NIDirect
Read our Let's talk about: Getting help blog article for more charities and organisations that can offer help, advice, therapy or, perhaps, just a distraction.
We all have mental health, we have to look after it just as we do our physical health
Bad mental health can affect our feelings, behaviour, thoughts and rationality. And it's not just you, 1 in 4 of us will experience mental health issues in any given year.
Hear from actor, comedian and writer Stephen Fry, GBBO's Nadiya Hussain, Years & Years lead vocalist Olly Alexander and others about their struggles with mental health.
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Have you struggled with mental health in the past and want to share your story to help others? Visit rethink.org to share your experience. Your story could help someone struggling with a mental health issue come forward and get the help they need.
Let's talk about...
Read our Let's talk about blog series to find out more about ecotherapy, our senses and their role in helping to lift our mood, our world and how different cultures view mental health and how and where to get help if you need it.
