Nature as Medicine: The Impact of Dose of Nature on Mental Health

Dose of Nature, a charity founded by Alison Greenwood, offers a unique approach to mental health treatment by prescribing time outdoors as an alternative to traditional therapies. Based in south-west London, the initiative has gained traction since its inception in 2019, delivering over 1,500 one-to-one courses that reportedly outperform standard NHS talking therapies. The program boasts a recovery rate of 64%, compared to the NHS's 50%, and an improvement rate of 86% versus 69%.

The Guardian

The core philosophy behind Dose of Nature is rooted in the belief that human beings thrive in natural environments. Greenwood emphasizes that exposure to nature can significantly enhance mental well-being, as it allows individuals to reconnect with their surroundings. The program encourages participants to engage with nature, whether through leisurely walks or simply sitting in a park. Scientific studies support this approach, indicating that natural sounds and environments can improve mood and reduce stress.

The Guardian

Tom Krumins, a former client who now works for Dose of Nature, shares his transformative experience. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, he found solace in nature-based sessions, stating, “Every single time I’d have a session with my guide, I’d come away feeling so much better.” His journey illustrates the profound impact that nature can have on mental health.

The Guardian

The Dose of Nature program begins with a 90-minute assessment by a psychologist, followed by eight weekly outdoor sessions with a trained volunteer guide. This structure aims to foster a personal connection to nature, culminating in a final assessment to evaluate progress. Participants can also join ongoing groups that include various outdoor activities, ensuring continued engagement with nature.

The Guardian

An independent assessment by researchers from the London School of Economics found that Dose of Nature is not only effective but also cost-efficient. The study, which followed 375 participants over two-and-a-half years, concluded that the social welfare benefits of the program were worth eight times its cost. Dr. Faisal Islam, a GP who refers patients to Dose of Nature, notes that it provides an essential alternative for those who have not found success with traditional treatments.

The Guardian

While the program has garnered positive feedback, some skepticism remains regarding its efficacy compared to conventional therapies. Critics may question the scientific basis of nature prescriptions or the long-term sustainability of such an approach. However, many participants, like Sal, emphasize the importance of understanding the science behind the benefits of nature, stating, “It’s not flim-flam and it’s not all lefty tree huggers.”

The Guardian

Dose of Nature aims to expand its reach, with plans for projects in various locations, including Hounslow and Lincolnshire. Greenwood expresses a desire to demonstrate the program's effectiveness across diverse settings, stating, “This is for everybody. It’s not just for one section of society.” The initiative seeks to establish nature prescriptions as a viable option for mental health treatment, potentially reshaping how society approaches mental well-being.

The Guardian

• “The idea that nature is good for our mental health and wellbeing has been around for millennia. We evolved outside, under the sky, [and so] we are animals that are caged most of our time, in schools or cars or offices or homes. As soon as we get outside, we’re free.” — Alison Greenwood, Founder of Dose of Nature

The Guardian

• “I had never experienced any sort of continued stability but I haven’t had an episode of mania for three years now. I have never felt more enabled and more optimistic about the future.” — Tom Krumins, Operations Assistant at Dose of Nature

The Guardian

• “It was a real source of help to understand the science behind why nature is so positive for you – it’s not flim-flam and it’s not all lefty tree huggers.” — Sal, Dose of Nature Client

The Guardian

• “Now we have got an alternative – it’s immediately in my thoughts when I assess a patient, along with medication and CBT. I honestly think it will save lives and improve patients’ mental health.” — Dr. Faisal Islam, GP

The Guardian

In summary, Dose of Nature represents an innovative approach to mental health treatment, leveraging the restorative power of nature to enhance well-being and provide a viable alternative to traditional therapies.

The Guardian