This week marks Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK, which has become the biggest health awareness week since its inception 20 years ago. 

"Nature is so central to our psychological and emotional health, that it's almost impossible to realise good mental health for all without a greater connection to the natural world."

Mental health and nature are interlinked and there has never been a more important time to take care of both. 

So here are some things that can help:

• Get outside

Easy enough when the weather is nice but braving the elements even just for a 20 minute walk round the block can be super helpful. 

• Stop, look, listen

A game we play with our kids! The pace of the world can sometimes get overwhelming so grounding ourselves in nature, standing still for a moment to look around and just listen can bring us back and help us focus. 

• Be part of something bigger

Joining in with a local campaign that shows you're not alone. Check out #NoMowMay or #millionmileclean

• Connect with people

Find a group of people you connect with. Strengthening relationships with others is critical to boosting well-being and it helps to know that you're not alone and you get to meet like-minded people all doing their bit. 

For more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week visit mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw. You can also join the conversation on social media using #ConnectWithNature and #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek