Hiking and mental health
The mental health charity Mind reports that on average in England, 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem of some kind and 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem. The charity presents a wealth of other statistics and resources, so do check them out. These numbers really caught my eye, so I would like to share the benefits that hiking and being in the outdoors can bring towards mental health.
I am by no means an expert on mental health, if you want to find out more about some causes, resources, where to find help etc. I have linked some websites that may be useful.
Useful websites about mental health
Hiking and Mental Health
“To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles”
There have been numerous publications and articles outlining some of the key benefits to spending more time outdoors and / or hiking. The following list will summarise some of the key principles.
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A 2015 research study at Stanford University provided evidence of a decrease in activity of the subgenual prefrontal cortex, a region of the brain linked to negative emotions and depression by taking walks surrounded by nature in comparison to urban environments.
The study also concluded that people taking walks in nature are less likely to dwell on negative thoughts.
Source: Stanford Report, 2015
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In a world where most of us are connected almost 24/7 through technology, at work and at home, the risk of burning out and anxiety has been shown to increase.
Heading out on a hike can act as a switch off from your urban daily environment. By heading into the outdoors, your mind can be stimulated by so many other sights, sounds and smells that the desire to reply to an email will reduce. I find on my hikes, I can happily spend hours off my phone when hiking which wouldn’t be the case in the city.
Source: go1
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There is something really calming and refreshing knowing as I wake up, I have one goal and one mission to achieve. That is to make it to my next destination on the hike. Whilst I know there will be challenges along the way, I only need to focus on one goal. I’ve felt this has allowed my racing mind to slow down and take things in that I would probably miss in the city. This includes time to think within yourself and time to reflect in your surroundings.
Being surrounded by mountains, one is simply forced to be amazed and to be humbled by their presence. The feeling of exhiliration and of “being alive” allows us to forget thos every day worries and put them into perspective later on.
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Hiking is as much of a personal challenge as anything. In a span of a couple of days, a good hike will roll you across the ups and the downs - tough uphills, pouring rain, mud and yet at the finish, a feeling of immense pride and joy will prevail.
I believe this can be a microcosm of many challenges - hiking allows you to see that the pain is temporary, for the joyous end will only feel more intense after a level of uncomfort.
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Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, emotions, and overall sense of well-being.
Hiking, like any good exercise, can help increase its production. This increase can make you happier, less moody, and even help you sleep better at night.
Source: 52trails
“Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves”
Conclusion
Whilst the benefits of being in the outdoors and hiking are clear, each person will experience the positive effects in their own way. I can only encourage as many of you as possible to get out of your comfort zones and reach for the wild!
I would love to hear from you regarding mental health and hiking. If you have personal stories you would like to share, or feedback about the article, I would love to hear!
