From the Editor

by Vicki Leeper

Gardening for Mental Health

May is Mental Health Awareness month and one of the things that works best for me is gardening. Turns out there is science behind it. It’s a Mycobacterium vaccae bacteria found in the soil that humans ingest or inhale when they spend time in nature and gardening. This bacteria stimulates the part of the brain responsible for producing serotonin. I can tell you that the garden is my “happy place” and that the actual physical act of digging in the dirt reduces my stress and lifts my mood. Mycobacterium vaccae also improves cognitive function, it has an effect on Crohn’s disease and even rheumatoid arthritis. The natural effects of these antidepressant bacteria in the soil can be felt for up to 3 weeks. I am proud to be a part of the Koppel Farm accessible garden plot construction so others with disabilities can support their mental health and grow some yummy vegetables! Read more about it on DAC NW’s page.

Have something for the Newsletter? Email dac@dacnw.org

Quotes to make you think!

“Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive – not where you are going.”