News / Nature
Bristol project shows doctors prescribing nature can improve mental health
A six-week programme offered vulnerable adults and teenagers the chance to engage with nature at sites along the River Frome from Frenchay to Yate.
River Remedies: Improving Wellbeing through Nature provided compelling evidence that nature-based sustainable prescribing could result in savings for the NHS and improved water quality for all.
Participants were invited to sessions made up of a variety of activities including looking at river samples, testing for phosphates and nitrates, litter picking and yellow fish campaigning.
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Wellbeing scores and pollution awareness levels were recorded before and after the sessions, with positive wellbeing following activities, and an increased awareness of pollution to the natural environment also recorded.
The scheme was delivered by environmental consultancy Eunomia with support from South Gloucestershire Council and Bristol Avon Rivers Trust, and funded by the Environment Agency.
The six-week programme improved water quality in the river, and boosted participants’ wellbeing
David Baxter, head of natural economy at Eunomia and project director, said: “I believe projects on rivers should be part of a portfolio of social prescriptions available for everyone, particularly those who are dealing with issues of depression, anxiety or isolation.
“They are suitable for all ages but, as mental health is a growing problem for young people, it is worth noting that they are a particularly accessible and relevant therapy for teenagers.”
Damian Crilly, manager of strategic catchment partnerships at the Environment Agency, added: “This study has provided valuable, practical insight into the delivery of a social prescription on connecting people with nature.
“It found that river-based remedies, a kind of nature-based social prescription, has a positive effect in terms of increased engagement with the river, (and) helped manage mental health risks and improved wellbeing.”
Read more: Following the Frome
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