Gardening for mental well-being

Sage - Ken with the Spuds
Sage - Ken with the Spuds

Will Spring ever come? SAGE Greenfingers are the first to know about it when leaves start to bud, crocuses spring up and the battle with weeds starts all over again! Like everything in life gardening has its highs and lows, but getting active in the garden and watching the turning seasons can be wonderfully therapeutic.

Burngreave resident Ken, who has been attending Greenfingers gardening sessions for 5 years, has found the project a real lifeline. He sank into depression after retiring from work in 2007 and became increasingly socially isolated. His GP referred him to SAGE and he has become a regular attender. He has made new friends, helped grow and eat fantastic harvests of organic fruit and veg, and is now getting help with developing his own small garden. Because of all this he’s beginning to feel more positive about what life has to offer:

“It’s been a fantastic support and helped me through some really low times. Now I’m beginning to look forward again.”

SAGE Greenfingers supports adults experiencing a range of mental health problems through therapeutic gardening and arts and craft activities on Grimesthorpe allotments.

Monday – women only – 11 – 2pm

Tuesday – mixed group – 11 – 2pm

Thursday – mixed group – 11 – 2pm

There is also a group for adults with a personal budget on Wednesday 11 – 2pm.

To find out more phone 274 3651 or visit http://www.sagesheffield.org.uk

Sponsored by NHS Sheffield’s Healthy Communities Programme

This document was last modified on 2013-03-24 22:01:38.