- “Green prescriptions” were trialled across England
- Participants reported an increase in their happiness and reduced anxiety
- Being prescribed “nature” costs half the amount of traditional treatments
A new report reveals that a groundbreaking scheme to connect people with nature across England has led to significant improvements in mental health.
Thousands of individuals have benefited from “green prescribing” initiatives, which include activities such as nature walks, community gardening, tree planting, and wild swimming.
The government-backed programme began in 2020 with £5.7 million in funding. So far, it has helped more than 8,000 people.
- Taking large strides when walking burns the most calories
- Increasing fruit intake can prevent poor mental health later in life
- Mental ill health accounts for 20,000 people off work each month
Sites involved in the pilot projects spanned regions such as Humberside, South Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Manchester, Surrey, and the west country.
Participants reported a marked increase in their happiness and sense of life being worthwhile while levels of anxiety dropped significantly.
The scheme was also found to be cost-effective with a “green prescription” costing about £500.
A green prescription is half the cost of traditional cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Researchers from the University of Exeter, who evaluated the project, highlighted its success.
Prof Ruth Garside, co-author of the report, said, “Green social prescribing is an effective way of supporting people with their mental health, but this is just the beginning. Policymakers must continue to back these schemes.”
Participants described life-changing experiences, with some saying that nature-based activities worked better than medication or CBT.
The programme was particularly effective in reaching a diverse range of people, including 21% from ethnic minority backgrounds and 57% from economically deprived areas.
GPs, mental health teams, and social workers referred individuals to the schemes with assessments before and after participation showing dramatic improvements in mental wellbeing.
Dr Marion Steiner, a Bristol-based GP involved in the programme, said, “This project has the potential to reduce NHS treatment costs and address a wide range of health issues.”
With demand for mental health services growing, there are plans to expand the reach of green prescribing schemes to support more people across England.
