This Mental Health Awareness Week, 11-17 May, the Mental Health Foundation are asking people to take action to support good mental health. Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust agree that by taking small actions in nature, we can feel hopeful and less powerless, and this is proven to have a positive impact on both mental and physical health.

The Trust has therefore chosen this week to launch its annual 30 Days Wild nature challenge, which encourages people to do one wild thing every day throughout the month of June, and to reap the wellbeing rewards. The challenge is open to everyone and participants are encouraged to sign-up for a free pack full of ideas and activities to get them started on their journey. There are two options, a children’s pack, which provides posters, wildlife swapping cards, spotter sheets and a tracker, and one aimed at adults, which includes a planner for the challenge and wildflower seeds.

Amy Trotter, Wilder Communities Officer at Herts and Middlesex Trust says,

“Many of us lead busy lives, are constantly glued to our screens and suffer with information overload and all the concerns and stresses that come with that. We have the pressures of health, families, work, finances, exams, fear of missing out – the list is endless! All of this raises our stress levels, and at times, it can become too much for us to deal with – it’s no surprise when our mental health suffers. Of course, nature can’t cure all the problems in the world but mindful time in nature can certainly calm our frantic minds, give us a moment of peace and tranquillity, provide a sense of perspective and remind us that we are not alone. 

“By getting involved in 30 Days Wild, we can remind ourselves of our own commitment to step away from the phone, computer or TV, to unplug the headphones and enjoy the release of natural entertainment. Then, after 30 days, a short spell of listening to bird song, watching a bee as it goes from flower to flower, or looking at long grass blowing in the wind might become a daily habit that helps to promote a healthy mental state. Nature is essential for us all, whatever we do and wherever we live.” 

The Trust works with groups and organisations to encourage the mental health and wellbeing benefits of being in nature. For example, in collaboration with Carers In Hertfordshire, it is currently running a four-week sensory based Wilder Wellbeing Walk programme. Each week has a different theme from woodland to meadow to chalk streams. The aim is to support carers to take a break from their caring role, explore local green spaces and improve their wellbeing.  

Over the last 11 years, 30 Days Wild has attracted more than three million participants across the country and helped people to get outside, to enjoy and connect with nature as part of their everyday lives. In 2024, three-quarters of those who took part in the challenge noted improvements in their mental health and overall wellbeing. 

To sign up for a free 30 Days Wild pack, visit wildlifetrusts.org/30DaysWild.