Social prescribing is based on a recognition that our health is determined by a range of factors including diet, social and physical activities and many other influences. It seeks to link people who have health problems with groups and activities they are likely to enjoy and that will benefit their health, perhaps by encouraging better eating, making friends or becoming more active. It seems a far more logical response to loneliness than a handful of antidepressants!
A further development of this idea is Green Prescribing. This is based on the knowledge that nature and getting outdoors is beneficial for our mental and physical health. It has even been shown to reduce high blood pressure as well as improve mood. Research linked to the Wildlife Trust’s 30 Days Wild challenge showed that 30% more people recorded their health as excellent after they’d completed the challenge.
The good news is that we don’t have to see our GPs for a green prescription or take a challenge, we can just visit www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org/volunteer and browse a wide selection of volunteering roles. You can sign up online and make a real difference to your own health and the state of nature in our county. Go for it! It’s a win-win activity.
For more general information about the North Nottinghamshire Local Group of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, call Jan on 01777 709974 or 07969 180067 or email janwilliamson133@gmail.com. If you would like to receive email updates of Local Group activities, please email Jan with your request.
