Matt was an alcoholic for 25 years, as a result suffers from diabetes and also had brain injury, all of which had a big impact on his life. He's been sober for 4.5 years and through community gardening and further support he started living a happier healthier life.
"The garden is quite therapeutic... I never had confidence before I went in the garden.
It helps you physically by just going down and being involved. .... I've seen me going down there in times of really - desperation. It is a place of hope. Because when you go down there and you look over the water it's like heaven, its like your just in a thing of your own, your own world. And it's really therapeutic for just going down and sitting."
But now I can do things off the top of my head!"
Sometimes many factors in your life can add-up and make you feel unwell.
You’re not alone.
Dealing with health conditions and a busy life can be frustrating and overwhelming, whether you have a sedentary lifestyle, suffer from loneliness or simply want to break up your routine with a bit of fun, spending time outdoors has been shown to improve your physical and mental health.
We can help you take charge of your own health and live a happier life by giving you access to the support you need.
By talking to our Green Health Information Hotline at DVVA, we can help you find an activity you enjoy and makes you feel better – for free.