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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
Damien Gayle

‘I forget everything’: the benefits of nature for mental health

Smithills estate in Bolton, which ran a programme of nature walks.
Smithills estate in Bolton, which ran a programme of nature walks. Photograph: John MacPherson/Woodland Trust/PA

During Covid lockdowns, Sharon Powell felt alone. She was caring for her father, 90, who was deteriorating from Parkinson’s disease and dementia, and looking after him had become increasingly difficult.

Social life in her community in Johnson Fold, Bolton, had been Powell’s escape from the pressure at home, but when Covid restrictions were introduced “everything was just gone”. She was depressed, anxious and having panic attacks “like a washing machine on full spin”.

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