Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Addictions Patients Turn to Gardening to Improve Their Sense of Self

People dealing with anxiety, mental disorders or addictions all handle their problems in different ways - through group meeting sessions, one-on-one counseling, art therapy or volunteering around the community. Another method that has taken shape throughout the Victoria region is becoming close with nature through gardening. Children, adults and the elderly turn to the dirt in their backyards to cope with mental illness, planting beans, lettuce, cucumbers and other legumes to benefit not only their diets but also their overall personal well-being.

Centres embrace gardening therapy
Prison homes, retirement facilities, veterans' hospitals and rehabilitation centres are all embracing this innovative form of therapy on the grounds surrounding their buildings, helping individuals cope with depression, post traumatic stress disorder or anxiety issues. The nation even boasts its own organization to promote this healing method, named the Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association. This approach of gardening as a form of healing can reduce stress and relieve nerves in the body, as well as decrease levels of particular hormones that contribute to the body's stress responses.

Similar to journaling or exercise, this therapeutic hobby is another way for adults battling mental health disorders to manage their emotional problems. Ranging from 20-year-olds to 60-year-olds, the ages of those interested in this type of therapy varies across the board, and can be a beneficial method to promote when beginning to work as an addictions and community service worker.

Teaching values
One of the reasons that those with little hope or belief in themselves can benefit from gardening therapy is that it teaches them the importance of committing to an activity for a long period of time. As plants are living things, a garden shows people the value of caregiving and the rewards of watching something they have nurtured for months grow into a blossoming flower or a large, ripe vegetable or fruit.

Develop self-respect
Not only does this process show participants the steps of the caregiving process, but it also might help them understand how to treat themselves better, whether by leading a healthier lifestyle or allowing themselves to depend on others when they need extra support. Just as the elements of the garden need another to water them, feed them and place them in the right environment to grow, those suffering with addictions cannot fight all of their battles alone.

Students who are interested in learning about the various forms of mental health and addiction treatment can consider enrolling in healthcare courses at CDI College. To find out more information, fill out the form on the right.

Source: http://www.cdicollege.ca/all-news/addictions-and-community-service-worker/addictions-patients-turn-to-gardening-to-improve-their-sense-of-self/

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