An innovative, four-session program offers carers in the eastern region an opportunity to connect with nature and help decrease the risk of developing depression.

Villa Maria Eastern Community Services, in partnership with People & Parks Foundation, has developed a creative four-session Ecotherapy for Carers program in the Dandenong Ranges National Park. The program runs during November and December and includes ranger-led walks, guided meditation, developing art in the forest with an artist and helping revitalise garden beds in the park.

Studies indicate that one in five Australians will experience depression with the risk of depression increasing for a person caring for a loved one who is unwell.

The Ecotherapy program is part of People & Parks Foundation’s Feel Blue Touch Green project. According to the Feel Blue Touch Green 2006 Report, past participants of the program found that being in contact with nature had a calming effect and assisted in reducing the stresses of everyday life as well as increasing social connection.

One of the aims of Villa Maria’s Eastern Community Services Carer Support Program is to enhance the wellbeing of carers by strengthening their relationships within their communities. The program offers services to carers in the eastern region caring for a loved one who is frail aged, has dementia, an acquired brain injury or a mental illness.

Jessica Taylor, Villa Maria’s Mental Health Resource Consultant, says: “The Ecotherapy for Carers program is the first in a series that we hope to provide for carers in the eastern region. We want to give them the opportunity to experience the benefits of taking time out from their caring role whilst having fun with others in a beautiful natural setting.”