Steffan Thomas, 24, from Cardiff, Wales, has experienced an amazing transformation in his mental health. With help from his volunteer experience at the nearby Plant Chicago community farm, he’s been bursting with self-assurance. Living with autism and fighting chronic anxiety, Thomas wanted nothing more than to rejoin his community after finishing an intensive detox program this past February. By sharing his experience with others as a volunteer, his experience has created in him a powerful sense of purpose. It’s made an even bigger impact on his mental health.
Thomas is just one of thousands of people across the UK who struggle with depression and anxiety. During this unprecedented time, the need for mental health assistance has never been greater. He expressed that his time at the community farm has played a crucial role in alleviating his anxiety, particularly around social interactions. “If I go a week without doing it, then I am disappointed,” he shared. I need to be there as much as I can, because volunteering has turned into such a necessary aspect of my life.
The community farm has provided a safe space for people like Thomas, who have difficulty navigating conventional social situations. His experience is part of a growing movement to harness the power of community projects to advance mental health. McEvoy, 41, an active farm volunteer, has experienced the same benefits. Spending a few days each week working with animals and engaging with others has proven beneficial for her mental well-being.
Simon Jones, head of policy at Mind Cymru made the case for community-driven initiatives such as the ones mentioned above as vital for tackling the mental health crisis. People are increasingly looking for opportunities to improve their mental wellbeing through social interaction. In turn, community-focused projects like these are growing in importance.
Prof Kamila Hawthorne, a GP and Bevan Commission commissioner, noted the rising prevalence of chronic ill health in both mental and physical domains. “We’re all aware of how chronic ill health is increasing, in terms of mental and physical health,” she said. She stated that now more than ever, we need to take proactive approaches to stop the decline of the mental health of our nation. She cautioned that if we don’t act now, this will only get worse. This perfect storm will bring the NHS to its knees.
The Welsh government is actively working to address various factors that impact overall well-being, according to Minister for Health and Wellbeing Sarah Murphy. She stated, “That’s why we’re working to address all the factors that affect well-being, from housing and employment to tackling loneliness and building stronger communities.” This holistic approach goes beyond surface-level fixes and is intended to foster an environment where people can prosper both mentally and emotionally.
Challenges still exist across the sector. Ms. Aylett explained that the absence of long-term funding for supportive initiatives has stalled momentum. Ongoing public investment is vital to make sure initiatives like this are able to run smoothly and connect the most vulnerable people to the service that they need.
Volunteering at community farms has positive ripple effects for people like Thomas and McEvoy. In the process, it truly creates a culture of belonging with the community itself. Thomas opened up about his experience with loneliness during a dark period in his life. He opened up, sharing, “When I was drinking, I didn’t leave the house for three years. Being out in the community around other people would destroy me.” His story is a testament to the determination of people working to improve their mental health.
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