Mental Health Day

The National Outdoor Centre said that 45% of the British population are spending more and more time outdoors. This is to benefit their mental health just as much as their physical health.

After an extraordinarily difficult 18 months, the pandemic has left more than a third (36%) of Brits wanting to take a “digital detox” and enjoy time away from their phones, laptops and computers. 

Multiple lockdowns, redundancies and health concerns has taken its toll with almost a third (32%) of Brits saying they spend time outdoors to distract themselves from the stresses of life.  

After being confined to your home for living, work and home schooling, it’s unsurprising that 18% of adults say they are active outdoors to take a break from work while 39% say they do it to escape ‘cabin fever’ after spending long periods inside.  

As people seek to both look after and entertain themselves during the pandemic there has been an increase in the number of Brits being active outdoors. Almost a third (32%) of Brits have tried an outdoor activity for the first time since the initial national lockdown in March 2020. 

Going for long distance walks is the most popular outdoor activity with almost 9 million Brits (or 17% of adults) trying it for the first time, followed by running (10%) and cycling (7%). Meanwhile 4% have tried climbing and 3% outdoor swimming. 

After the pandemic especially, mental health has taken a toll on the nation's wellbeing. Thankfully, more of the population are finding out for themselves the difference even a 10 minute walk makes to their mental health. 

If ever you are feeling down, take a breather. Go for a walk. Sit in the sun. Get out of the house and clear your head. Whatever you do, remember you are not the only one. Don't suffer in silence. Things will get better.