Social prescribing, green care and exercise

While research suggests physical activity is linked to positive mental wellbeing, we also know that some mental health conditions are associated with inactivity or lack of movement.

To better understand the role of movement associated with psychological distress, we are leading an investigation of the lived experience of people who experience depression and or anxiety in terms of movement and motor functioning. This will inform a biomechanical investigation of the objective differences and changes in movement of those with and without diagnosed anxiety or depression and how this might change over the course of treatment.

Researchers

• Dr Aleksandra Birn-Jeffery

Collaborators and funders

• MQ Wellcome (How Anxiety and Depression Affect the Way We Move)

Depression and anxiety are the two most common mental health conditions, that often co-exist and relapse over time. There is a need for sustainable treatment options to address increasing rates of depression and anxiety and reduce the strain on health systems.

Social and Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) is a nature-based health intervention that can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, however synthesised evidence of its effectiveness is required to inform commissioning and availability of interventions. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the effectiveness of STH for reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Researchers

• Dr Carly Wood

Collaborators and funders

• Funder: MQ Mental Health Research | Transforming The Future of Mental Illness

We have particular expertise in researching the effectiveness of nature-based interventions including those which aim to improve mental wellbeing. iCARP is an angling-based programme developed in Essex to support military veterans experiencing trauma symptoms, depression and anxiety. Participants are taken on group fishing trips which include opportunities to open up and talk about their experiences alongside therapeutic support.  The research team has undertaken pilot research pointing towards short and long-term benefits. The team are now working to undertake a more formal evaluation of treatment effects and extending the intervention to other emergency and front line personnel.

Researchers

• Dr Nicholas Cooper
• Professor Sheina Orbell
• Dr Mike Rogerson
• Dr Mark Wheeler
• Dr Guyan Sloane

Collaborators and funders

• Funders: National Institute for Health and Care Research
• Collaborators: iCARP CIC (Investigating Countryside & Angling Research Projects)