ON THE COUCH Growing apple a day keeps doctor away

From walking schemes to gardening and running, how GPs' 'green prescribing' can help your physical and mental health

- BY DR RAJ PERSAUD, CONSULTANT PSYCHIATRIST

The NHS and the government, like to make a big thing about what is termed 'Green or social prescribing'. This is another attempt to cut the queues for medical treatment.

Instead of viewing your local GP solely as a source of prescriptions for medication, if they prescribe opportunities to engage in 'nature-based' involvements and actions, this will be better long term for your mental and physical health.

These could include local walking schemes, community gardening, conservation volunteering, green gyms, open water swimming, or arts and cultural activities, many of which will take place outdoors.

But many doctors are also prescribing evening classes and gym sessions. This cuts the queues because it diverts people away from clinics into classrooms, for example.