This course includes vegetables and it is the process of growing some of your own food that I believe can have a restorative effect on mental health. Being part of the natural world, sowing, watering, weeding, pruning, harvesting and eating the plants helps to re-establish one's individual connection with our planet, its seasons and rhythms. There is, too, enough light exercise to boost endorphin levels. The important thing about the exercise is that it can be taken at the patient's own pace, without pressure from anyone else. It doesn't matter if it's an allotment or a grow bag and a few pots of herbs on a high rise balcony. It is the interaction that matters.
One of the primary causes of depression is loss of control. Out in the garden, far from the madding crowd, the patient is in control making decisions without interference from others. There is only one relationship and that is of the patient with Mother Nature and her healing life force. This is not a cure all, it is complementary and one of the tools that can be used to support one's own recovery. It won't be suitable for everyone: some just won't want to do it, but for those who do, the potential for discovering a fresh perspective on life is well worth the effort. Yes, it will require effort. This isn't a friendly tablet from your pharmacist which "does it all for you". This is taking an active role in helping yourself get better and that is the key principle.
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