In the situation of a mental health emergency/epidemic, I understand that gardening therapy should be prescribed by physicians, more specifically mental health physicians and general practitioners. 1 hour of gardening therapy or more is essential for renewing the mind, body and spirit, and would be most beneficial when combatting mental health disorders. Out of 317 people who took part in table-top gardening sessions run by Thrive across Berkshire, Hampshire and south Oxfordshire, 80 per cent reported better mental health as a result, with 93% saying they had improved their confidence and motivation. Across the pond in Philadelphia*, 144 gardeners were asked for the reasons they did it and mental health was second to recreation as the most important factors. STH and similar green care interventions can: Reduce depression, anxiety and stress-related symptoms Alleviate the symptoms of dementia, such as aggressive behaviour Increase the ability to concentrate and engage Reduce reliance on medication, self-harming behaviour. Gardening is considered a vigorous form of exercise as directed by physicians, it aids in the reduction of obesity, supporting cognitive health and increases self-esteem. This opportunity could be capitalised on through allowing those inflicted with mental health disorders to be prescribed a specific time period of gardening therapy, meaning that they will carry out gardening duties voluntarily and not be paid, as it would be considered part of their designated treatment plan. Once the gardening duties have been complete, we could provide tickets to be sold for a decent price of £10-25 to view the completed garden and enjoy the ammenities that are available. This would enable a sufficient profit to be made, which is commercially beneficial for the industry or company who owns the gardening plot, as well as benefitting those mentally distressed, or clinically diagnosed with mental health disorders. As well vegetables and flowers being grown, in order to make flower arrangements and sell locally to communities, as well as vegetables being grown to be sold to wholesalers and made into food dishes to be sold to local communities.
1933-11