NHS Lanarkshire celebrated World Mental Health Day by hosting a variety of events at the King George V Community Garden located in the grounds of University Hospital Wishaw. The focus of this year’s activities was on promoting ‘Workplace Mental Health’, stressing the significance of addressing mental wellbeing not just for staff but for the benefit of organisations and communities as a whole.
The event at the garden saw a mix of volunteers, patients, members of the public, and students from St Thomas’s and Berryhill primary schools coming together. Engaging in activities such as gardening, mindfulness workshops, running, cycling, and arts and crafts, participants explored ways to nurture positive mental health both at work and in daily life. The goal was to showcase practical and accessible methods to support overall wellbeing.
Numerous organisations were on-site, providing information and resources related to mental health support. Representatives from NHS Lanarkshire’s Tobacco Control Team and Health Promoting Health Service were present, discussing the mental health benefits of interacting with nature and engaging in regular exercise. Additionally, the team revealed a new garden shed featuring designs by local school children for a smoke-free mural.
Vicki Trim, health improvement lead at University Health & Social Care North Lanarkshire, highlighted the positive impact of outdoor activities and connecting with nature on mental health. She expressed the hope that the community garden would serve as a valuable resource for all members of the public and community groups. Research consistently shows that such activities can significantly improve physical and mental health.
The King George V Community Garden is part of NHS Lanarkshire’s broader initiative to promote green spaces across the region for community wellbeing. Supported by NHS Charities Together and Greener Communities, the project encourages residents of Lanarkshire to explore and utilise these spaces to reap the health benefits they offer.
As part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness and provide support for mental health issues, events like these play a crucial role in fostering a more inclusive and supportive community. By engaging in activities that promote mental wellbeing, participants not only enhance their own quality of life but contribute to creating a healthier and more resilient society overall.