Mental health is a subject that touches everyone, but it's not spoken about nearly enough. According to mental health charity Mind, approximately 1 in 4 people will experience some form of mental health issue each year, which is a pretty eye-opening statistic.
With that in mind, there's a very good chance that either you or someone you know has suffered with some kind of mental health issues.
Here at Winfields Outdoors, we want to add to the conversation around mental health and help people realise they're not alone, there are plenty of people in the same boat and that there are ways to get help. Here some mental health stats that might just raise an eyebrow or two...
While medication can help some people cope with their mental health problems, many also benefit from being outside more, getting some exercise and enjoying what the great outdoors has to offer. That's why we have set up the Winfields Outdoors Walk & Talk campaign. Our aim is to do our little bit to contribute to the wider conversation around mental health and encourage more people to use what nature has provided as just one method of tackling their issues.
We have spoken with a number of outdoor enthusiasts and writers to give their perspective on how getting out and about can boost mental health. Click the images below to read their articles:
[one_third]
This article examines six easy outdoor meditative practices you can try when out walking to relax, destress and feel close to the great outdoors.
[/one_third]
[one_third padding="0px 10px 0 0"]
A post that encourages mindfulness to help you relax. Advice on taking time to really enjoy the outdoors with your family and everything it offers.
[/one_third]
[one_third_last padding="0px 0px 0 10px" ]
Here we get reminded that sometimes we need to unplug from our digital world and enjoy spending time with our family in the great outdoors.
[/one_third_last]
[one_third padding="50px 20px 10px 0px"]
An important reminder on why walking is so good for us and how it can boost our physical and mental health.
[/one_third]
[one_third padding="50px 10px 0 0px"]
An article looking at how we need to be embracing the wonderful scenery, walking routes and outdoor spaces right there on our doorstep.
[/one_third]
[one_third_last padding="50px 10px 0 10px"]
If you're looking for some new walks to do with the family, this post will show you some that will bring you all closer together.
[/one_third_last]
[one_third padding="50px 20px 10px 0px"]
Do you feel like your wellbeing is suffering at the moment? Here you'll learn about how walking can improve your wellbeing and mindset, focusing on routine, movement, learning and community.
[/one_third]
[one_third padding="50px 10px 0 0px"]
We all suffer from it from time to time - learn how to beat stress by getting outdoors and getting some fresh air.
[/one_third]
[one_third_last padding="50px 10px 0 10px"]
Climber and explorer Nigel Vardy talks about his own battles with stress and depression and how he's used his travels and time in the great outdoors to battle it - his words could well help you too.
[/one_third_last]
[one_third padding="50px 20px 10px 0px"]
A personal account of how one writer has battled with anxiety and depression and how walking, even just to the shops, has helped them manage it.
[/one_third]
[one_third padding="50px 10px 0 0px"]
Depression and anxiety can affect anyone, and if you were wondering just how getting outside can help, this article has the evidence.
[/one_third]
[one_third_last padding="50px 10px 0 10px"]
We have several new interviews coming soon to the Walk & Talk page about the subject of getting outside to improve your mental health
[/one_third_last]
As well outdoor writers and bloggers, we're also speaking to various other people and organisations about mental health and getting outdoors. See snippets of the interviews below and click through to read the full thing...
Richard Colwill, SANE
"There is an abundance of evidence linking moderate, regular exercise, such as going for a brisk half-hour walk, with improved mental health. Research has shown that it can be as effective for depression as antidepressants or psychological therapies such as CBT. It can be particularly beneficial if you share outdoor activities with other people, as companionship is important to our sense of wellbeing."
Read the full interview with Richard Colwill from mental health charity, SANE
If you would like to speak with someone confidentially about any problems you're having, the following organisations can help:
Samaritans was founded in 1953 and now has 201 branches across the UK and Republic of Ireland. Their volunteers will listen to any problems you may be having and are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They have a phone, email and even a text service.
Tel: 116 123
Email: [email protected]
Mind provide advice and support to anyone experiencing mental health problems. Their helplines are open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
Tel: 0300 123 3393
Text: 86463
CALM offer support to men of any age who are feeling down or in crisis, as well as offering support to those bereaved by suicide. They're available 5pm-midnight, 365 days a year and have phone lines and a web chat.
Nationwide: 0800 585858
London: 0808 802 58 58
