How the great outdoors can help your mental health

Social connection is more important than ever for our physical and mental wellbeing.

Isolation and loneliness have been linked to higher risks of health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, and depression. Spending time with others can help alleviate these risks by decreasing stress, improving our mood, and helping us feel that we are a valuable part of our community.

Parks Victoria recognise the importance of not only getting out into nature, but connecting with friends, family and the community.

Healthy Parks Healthy People is a global movement helping to realise the health benefits of spending time in parks and nature. Victoria’s beautiful parks, coastlines and forests play an important role in building happy, healthy and active communities.

Some of Parks Victoria’s suggestions to get you out and about include:

• Guided park walks
• Volunteering
• Picnics and BBQs
• Dog walking
• Day trips

There are many local councils and neighbourhood houses who run programs and events where you can join in on community activities such as walking groups or outdoor exercise classes. U3A also offer a huge variety of activities such as cycling, boat trips and bushwalking, and invite anyone over fifty to join in the fun.

Find out more about Parks Victoria’s outdoor group activities, and get out into nature today!