Introduction
Mental health has become a significant issue in the modern world. Thus, different approaches have been introduced to help people improve their psychological health. Outdoor therapy is one of the strategies used to treat cerebral disorders. Consequently, one can analyze outdoor education to determine how it can help improve individuals’ health with psychological conditions.
Philosophical Differences Between Eco-psychology and Approaches in Outdoor Therapy
Nature-guided therapy is one of the outdoor approaches, which is primarily based on conventional office consultation. However, individuals are encouraged to reflect on their involvement in nature (McLeod, 2013). Thus, the difference between eco-psychology and nature-guided therapy is that the former involves the ideology that tries to treat people psychologically (McLeod, 2013). On the extreme, nature-guided therapy focuses on helping individuals learn how the environment can improve their mental health. Wilderness therapy is another approach in outdoor therapy that emphasizes the use of the physical and psychological challenges. In contrast, eco-psychology does not give any specific priority to a particular psychological process over others.
How Outdoor Education could be used to Improve the Mental health of Young People
Many young people have poor mental health due to different aspects, such as bullying and abuse. Thus, outdoor education is one of the approaches that can improve young people’s mental health. In this case, the method is essential since it encourages individuals to focus on personal growth and change (Berman & Davis-Berman, 2005). Young people can learn the ways that can help them change behaviors and improve mental health. Outdoor education can also improve young people’s health since it involves helping people become stronger, feel better, and develop their uniqueness.
How Outdoor Education could be used to Benefit the Adult Population
Outdoor education can also be essential for the adult population. Based on the information provided, one can learn that reduced stress is one of the benefits of outdoor education. Furthermore, the adult population can learn how the environment can improve their mental health. Improved imagination and memory is another benefit of outdoor education. In this case, the adult population can focus on the beauty of nature. Outdoor education encourages teamwork. Therefore, individuals can also interact and learn from one another. For instance, one can learn about ways of improving mental health from the team members. Besides, teamwork leads to increased motivation. Thus, outdoor education can also benefit the adult population in different ways.
Conclusion
Mental health is a significant issue that should be addressed by all means. Many people have lost their lives due to psychological issues. Consequently, health providers should focus on different approaches that can be used to limit mental disorders. For instance, outdoor therapy is an integral approach that limits the development of psychological disorders. Outdoor education is another fundamental approach that can be used to prevent mental illnesses among young people. In essence, different methods have been designed to address issues involving mental health.
References
Berman, D. S., & Davis-Berman, J. (2005). Positive psychology and outdoor education. Journal of Experiential Education, 28(1), 17-24.
McLeod, J. (2013). An introduction to counselling. McGraw-Hill Education.