April showers brought May flowers and now a beautiful garden to the Hope Drop-In Center! Clients at the San Jose-based center, which empowers youth ages 15-25 to take an active role in creating positive lifestyle changes within a supportive, safe, and understanding environment, are reaping the rewards after a day of therapeutic gardening last month. This year, they have collectively chosen carrots, bell peppers, squash, tomatoes, lettuce and an abundance of flowers as their crops of choice.
According to the American Horticultural Therapy Association, a therapeutic garden is a “plant-dominated environment purposefully designed to facilitate interaction with the healing elements of nature.” Beyond being a source of fresh and healthy food, a vegetable garden offers a variety of significant mental health benefits:
- Reducing Stress and Anxiety. Watching plants grow and produce food can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment, which can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with depression.
- Improving Well-being. Beyond being linked to increased levels of happiness, the physical activity and exposure to natural light that gardening requires can positively impact sleep quality, further contributing to improved mental health.
- Cognitive Function and Focus. Gardening requires attention to detail, which can improve one’s attention span and is beneficial for individuals struggling with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
- Social Connection. Gardening can provide opportunities for social interaction, fostering a sense of community and belonging. According to the Mayo Clinic, a strong sense of belonging lowers one’s risk of depression, anxiety and suicide.
“We are pleased to extend our safe and supportive environment to an outdoor space, as gardening offers myriad benefits for teens and young adults, and it can be fun, too,” says Program Manager Joycelyn Young.
