What is Ecotherapy and How Can It Help with Managing Depression

Many people diagnosed with depression believe the only possible treatment is the typical behavioural therapy and antidepressants and whilst these are helpful, there are several other forms of therapy that are effective and have helped to treat those diagnosed. Ecotherapy is a therapeutic practice that involves the use of nature and the environment to help improve mental health and well-being. This kind of therapy consists of activities such as gardening, walking in nature and outdoor meditation, all of which suggested by and done alongside a therapist as well as incorporated into behavioural therapy. Although depression is a complex mental health condition, studies have shown that this kind of therapy can help improve brain cognition, provide a coping strategy and act as comfort for the brain. 

Ecotherapy provides a wide range of activities designed to improve one's mental health and well-being. These activities include green exercise therapy, nature arts and crafts, animal-assisted therapy, and much more. These activities have shown an intense calming effect, significantly reducing stress and cortisol levels which are known as common triggers for depression. Being exposed to nature and green areas can help reduce stress levels, therefore encouraging relaxation and mental clarity. Participating in activities such as animal assisted therapy can help improve moods, elevate self-esteem, and raise serotonin levels, all of which are essential for regulating emotions. Sunlight, another natural element included in ecotherapy, increases vitamin D levels, which improves mood and overall mental health.

Many of these ecotherapy activities are group-focused, which helps develop social connections and reduces isolation. Gaining support from others is important for those dealing with depression, as it provides a feeling of connection and belonging. Moreover, including physical activities in ecotherapy, like walking and gardening, has been proven to help significantly impact both mental and physical health. Physical activity regularly releases endorphins, which is a natural mood lifter released by the body, and it improves cardiovascular health, both of which can improve one's mental state. 

Nature helps with mindfulness, focusing on the present and avoiding the worries of the past and future. This is good for managing depression as it provides calmness and grounding. Mindfulness in nature, such as outdoor meditations and walks, tends to increase the experience of peace within their environment, raising awareness of themselves. Furthermore, ecotherapy gives a connection to something more than a purpose in life. Engaging in an environmental activity such as gardening offers a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when done. The link to nature and the community could be very empowering to those who struggle with depression, as it refreshes the purpose of life.

Another positive about ecotherapy is that it's very accessible and inexpensive, which makes it a good option for those with limited access to mental health facilities. This gives a sense of inclusion where people diagnosed with depression find it easy to participate in therapeutic activities without needing the financial capacity for it. A large amount of research has been conducted and the results support the effectiveness of ecotherapy in managing depression. A systematic review reported that ecotherapy has similar effects on depression as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). 

While these findings do provide a sense of hope, ecotherapy is not a perfect solution for everybody. Depending on a person's personal preferences, the reaction to certain treatments differs, and what works for one person may not work for the other. This being kept in mind, personal preference should be considered while looking into this form of therapeutic practice. This kind of therapy can be done alongside other types, therapists may recommend for it to be done during free time or take up gardening as a hobby.

If you're struggling with depression, it is important to know that you are not alone.