'Humans are a social species' - Irish mental health charity urges people to go outside

An Irish mental health charity is encouraging people to get outside today (Mar 30) for 'Take a Walk in the Park Day'. 

According to Turn2Me, there are many links between being around nature and improved mental health, and particularly when the sun is shining. 

CEO of Turn2Me, Fiona O'Malley said, "Research shows that spending time in nature can help alleviate mental health problems including anxiety and depression. It can also help with grief and stress. Research into ‘ecotherapy’ has found that it helps with mild to moderate depression. Presumably if someone is doing physical activity around woodlands, mountains or in the sea, the endorphins also help. 

"There is a social element to going for walks, whether it’s stopping for a chat with people you meet along the way, or people who might join you for your walk, and that social engagement will also help your mental health. Humans are a social species, we are tribal in nature, and we need that interaction. On ‘Take a Walk in the Park Day’, we would encourage everyone to be nurtured by nature and get outside to improve your mood!” 

According to the national charity, an article called ‘Associations between Nature Exposure and Health: A Review of the Evidence’ found evidence to suggest exposure to nature improved cognitive function, brain activity, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity and sleep. 

Turn2Me said that being around nature can particularly help those who experience SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). 

The charity is urging anyone who is experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship issues, to avail of its free mental health services on Turn2Me.ie.

They offer up to six free counselling sessions to adults in Ireland and unlimited support groups on anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues to anyone in Ireland over the age of 12.

All these services are available on Turn2Me.ie