You should never feel alone if you’re feeling depressed and under pressure. In the UK, almost a fifth of adults experience depression or anxiety. This is according to research by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). It also found that women report that they are suffer from the conditions more than men. Life can throw us some major curveballs, including overthinking an event or a family bereavement. However, it’s also thought that certain genetic variations may make some more prone to the condition than others.
For some, anti-depressants are prescribed to help them cope with the effects of depression as they act as a ‘mood enhancer’. However, this doesn’t work for everyone. Have you ever thought how gardening could help? Well, 87% of people who garden for more than six hours per week feel happier, according to research. But why and how is this the case?
Keep busy
By taking to the garden, you will keep your mind and body active, while the tasks don’t have to be too strenuous. Tasks such as digging, mowing and planting can keep you occupied for hours on end and always thinking, while being outdoors can increase serotonin in the brain. On top of this, the relaxing ambience provided by being outside can leave you feeling rejuvenated.
Dr Sheri Jacobson, a psychotherapist and clinical director from Harley Therapy, is a firm believer that the benefits that come with being outside can help combat depression. She is quoted in Huffington Post saying: “While I haven’t come across anyone claiming that gardening has single-handedly overcome their depression, as part of a wide set of tools, gardening can be beneficial in the battle against depression.
“Being in the outdoors in more natural surroundings can help lift our mood as it brings a sense of simplicity and tranquillity which is therapeutic for many people.”
Garden with your family
You may lack confidence if you suffer from depression. Gardening as a family can be a great way in which to socialise within your comfort zone. Most kids love the garden — and spending time with you — so by creating fun tasks to improve your garden, they will instinctively have fun which will help lift your spirits.
Certain friendly bacteria that is found in soil can also work in a similar way to anti-depressants by boosting the immune system, according to scientists.
Grow your own produce
Have you ever thought about why you should grow your own vegetables? It is believed that producing your own food can help you reconnect with our planet, its seasons and rhythms. Not only this, but tending to your crops will provide enough light exercise — at your own pace — to boost your endorphin levels.
One of the main causes of depression is the feeling that you’re not in control, so growing your own produce can help give back some of that power. It’s also thought that folate-rich foods, such as kale and spinach, can help lift your morale. So, what better way to boost yourself than growing it yourself? Harvesting our own crops can also release the ‘pleasure chemical’ dopamine into the brain, triggering a state of bliss. This release can be caused by sight, smell and actually plucking fruit, so be sure to plant as many different edible options as possible and get that dopamine flowing!
Plant scented flowers
According the Japanese scientists, breathing in scents that have been released by plants such as lavender can alter gene activity and eliminate some levels of stress or depression. Aromatherapy, for example, is used as a form of alternative medicine and relies on scents such as this. Other plants that are recommended for your garden include jasmine — its fragrance is supposed to help you sleep — and rosemary, which is said to improve air quality, memory function and banish anxiety.
While the thought of getting up and gardening may be a struggle for some, there are many benefits to be had by getting into this as a hobby. Remember though, you are not alone in your struggle, so be sure to talk to professionals and those closest to you if you are depressed. There are many people out there to discuss your feelings with.
Sources
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2013/jun/19/anxiety-depression-office-national-statistics
http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/0/22020430
https://www.rachel-kelly.net/gardening-helps-depression/
https://www.rebootwithjoe.com/fruit-and-vegetables-may-help-fight-depression/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090722110901.htm
https://www.serenataflowers.com/pollennation/plants-anti-anxiety-benefits/
https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2013/07/16/gardening-helps-depression-_n_3602877.html
