Tens of thousands ‘should be prescribed art classes and gardening on NHS’, say medics
The IndependentThe physical and mental health of tens of thousands of people would benefit from being prescribed art classes, group gardening projects and nature walks on the NHS, royal medical colleges have said. Many people are missing out on “social prescribing”, according to a report from the Royal College of Psychiatrists and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists – a measure they believe could help tackle mental health difficulties that have been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr Katherine Kennet, lead author of the report and sustainability lead at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said: “Covid-19 has shown just how damaging loneliness and isolation can be to our mental health, but social prescribing can play a big part in supporting people’s recovery as we move out of the pandemic. “The importance of social participation on maintaining good mental health has been amplified during the pandemic,” said Karin Orman, assistant director for professional practice at the Royal College of Occupational Therapists.
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