A Mental Health First Aider's Perspective on Environmental Care
At Protect Earth, we understand that safeguarding the environment goes hand in hand with fostering mental well-being.
Recently, we had the pleasure of chatting with Daisy White from Park Avenue Recruitment, whose insights as a qualified mental health first aider shed light on the vital intersection between environmental consciousness and mental health. Daisy and the team volunteered with Protect Earth as part of a company effort to establish new woodlands. It sounds like it was a great day out for all who came, leaving those who didn't green with envy (and not the green found from grass stains after a fun day planting a new woodland outdoors together)
Let's hear what Daisy has to say!
The Healing Power of Nature
“That a day on a farm planting trees is a whole lot more fun than me and my teammates originally thought!”
Daisy shared her journey of discovering nature's profound impact on mental health. For her, it's not just theoretical knowledge; it's a lived experience. Whether it's a stroll through the forest or basking in the sunshine, she attests to the transformative effects of connecting with nature. "Time in nature, with teammates, away from the hectic city and computer screens is really good for the brain!" Daisy tells us.
Recognising nature's ability to alleviate stress, quell anxieties, and uplift mood, Daisy prioritises integrating outdoor activities into her daily routine. She advocates for nature's therapeutic benefits to her team, often opting for walking meetings over stationary desk sessions. She aptly says, "If we don't do what we can to look after our environment, we won't be able to do any of this for much longer."
The Essence of Team Support
As a mental health first-aider, Daisy views her team not just as colleagues but as pillars of support. She emphasises the importance of empathy, respect, and camaraderie in fostering a mentally healthy workplace. Drawing from her training, she understands the significance of being present for her team members, especially during challenging times. Celebrating victories, offering encouragement, and simply checking in on each other is integral to their team dynamic.
Lessons Learned and Physical Exertion
Reflecting on her experiences, Daisy highlights the valuable lessons from time spent in nature and engaging in environmental activities. From the rejuvenating effects of outdoor excursions to the satisfaction of contributing positively to the environment, each encounter leaves a lasting impression. Daisy tells us, "It takes small efforts from many people to achieve climate positivity around the world."
Of course, we had to ask her about any bruises, blisters, or pulled muscles. She told us, "Just some sore hands after using the shovels! It was a brilliant workout actually, digging the holes, so a good way to get your body moving as well."
Park Avenue Recruitment is always building new teams and looking for standout personalities.
A Vision for a Healthy Environment
For Daisy, a healthy environment entails a collective commitment to preservation and regeneration. It's about fostering a world where humans prioritise nurturing nature and overexploiting it. Clean air and water, abundant green spaces in urban landscapes, and comprehensive environmental education for future generations form the cornerstone of her vision. By instilling a climate-positive mindset and empowering individuals to address the climate crisis, Daisy envisions a brighter, sustainable future for all.
“A healthy environment would mean living in a world where humans do more to help protect nature than they do to degrade it”
To sum up
At Protect Earth, Daisy's perspective poignantly reminds us of the profound interconnectedness between environmental stewardship and mental well-being. As we strive to protect our planet, let's not forget to nurture our own mental landscapes along the way.
