Positive mental health

Going outdoors is a great way to promote positive mental health and one that not only benefits volunteers but also the people they come in contact with through the various community groups and organizations they volunteer at.  It is undeniable that being involved in outdoor activities can be rewarding not only for your physical being, but also to your mental wellbeing.

Much to be gained

Whether the choice is more adventurous such as mountain climbing, scuba driving or hang- gliding; more relaxing as in walking, golfing or fishing; and almost sedentary as in having a picnic or laying on the beach, there is much to be gained from being outdoors. If nothing else, you will be helping your body to create vitamin D!

Unmet Mental Health Needs

Of course, there are other important reasons why it is good to head outdoors, and especially so if you or your contacts are dealing with depression or other mental illnesses. It is estimated by the Canadian Mental Health Association, in their most recent annual report, that 1.6 million people had unmet mental health needs last year. This may include you, your fellow volunteers and the people you meet while volunteering.

Go Outside

One step to enhance your positive mental health and our callers or clients is to go outside and to focus on the things we see, hear and feel. By doing this we are giving our minds a respite from possible negative thinking. It seems as though God’s awesome creation transcends our thoughts and bestows us with wonder at all He has made. This is also an excellent way to practice volunteer self-care.

FOOTNOTES

Photo by Mason Dahl on Unsplash