How Nature Improves Mental Health
Mental health has been scientifically proven to reduce stress levels and improve mental health. Recent studies have concluded that being out in nature, looking at a picture of nature, or listening to sounds of nature all help decrease stress levels and provide a sense of tranquility. Constant exposure to nature can help those recovering from addiction or suffering from mental health issues improve their quality of life over time.
Studies have shown that people who live within a mile of nature have been proven to show fewer signs of depression, anxiety, and migraines, which are a few of the reasons why people turn to drugs. Those who spend less time in nature and more time in front of television, computer, and cell phone screens, are more likely to suffer from depression, feelings of isolation, and loss of empathy. When people experience these negative emotions, they’re more likely to take drugs for feelings of euphoria and relief. The problem with turning to drugs to reduce stress is that after a while the body requires higher doses to reproduce those feelings, which makes people become addicted.
How Nature Improves Focus
Studies also show that being exposed to nature can increase focus and attention, even if it’s just viewing a tree from a window. Nature’s calming effects help people relax and sharpen their performance no matter what they’re focused on. Taking the time to go for a walk in nature every day rather than taking a walk through an urban area helps decrease anger and blood pressure.
How Nature Encourages Connection
People recovering from substance abuse disorder should spend time in nature because it encourages social connections and boosts self-esteem. Many rehabilitation centers and alternative treatment centers are located in environments surrounded by nature to promote mental, physical, and emotional healing. When groups of people are recovering together at facilities, being in nature creates stronger bonds and an increased ability to deal with life’s circumstances. Nature also increases empathy, which increases the ability to connect with one another.
In fact, studies of the brain were conducted using MRI machines to measure its activity. When the participants involved viewed images of nature, the areas of the brain associated with empathy and love lit up. However, when participants viewed images of urban areas, the areas of the brain associated with fear and anxiety lit up.
Recovering from substance abuse disorder is not easy, but it’s possible. Spending time in nature has proven to help promote healing over time, especially for those struggling with addiction and mental illness disorder.
Alternative Treatment Centers in Tennessee
At Discovery Place, we are a nontraditional alternative treatment center located in Burns, Tennessee that was designed to assist addicts with their recovery process. We offer various programs tailored to meet the needs of our patients no matter what stage of their journey they’re on. Some of our programs include a 30-Day Alternative Residential Addiction Recovery Program and a Long-Term Alternative Addiction Recovery Program. If you would like to schedule a free consultation with us, call us at (800) 725-0922.
