Woodlands for Health

Woodlands for Health is a 12-week guided walking programme designed to support the mental health and well-being of adults engaged with mental health services across Ireland.

Programme Overview

Woodlands for Health is a 12-week guided walking programme designed to support the mental health and well-being of adults engaged with mental health services across Ireland. By integrating nature into the recovery journey, this initiative offers a sustainable and accessible approach to mental health care.

Launched in 2012 in County Wicklow, Woodlands for Health was inspired by Scotland’s award-winning “Branching Out” programme

Learn more about Branching Out

The programme has since expanded nationwide, reaching 14 counties and engaging over 380 participants in 2024 alone.

It is a collaborative partnership between Mental Health Ireland, Get Ireland Walking and Coillte nationally with many other organisations involved at a local level, including the HSE, Mental Health Associations and Local Sports Partnerships.

What to expect

Guided Walks: Participants embark on weekly walks through various forest settings, led by experienced guides and supported by mental health professionals.
Inclusive Approach: The programme welcomes individuals of all fitness levels, with walks tailored to accommodate diverse abilities.
Social Connection: Beyond physical activity, the programme fosters a sense of community, encouraging social interaction and support among participants.
Educational Components: Walks often include discussions on local flora and fauna, promoting environmental awareness and mindfulness.
Resources: Transport, lunch/ refreshments and Woodlands for Health merchandise is provided throughout.

Proven Impact

The 2020 evaluation of Woodlands for Health found wide-ranging benefits for participants, including:

Improved mental well-being: Participants reported reduced anxiety, greater calm, and improved mood.
Increased physical activity: Many continued walking after the programme ended.
Social connection: The group setting reduced isolation and built peer support.
Connection to nature: Time in woodland settings helped participants feel grounded and more positive.
Recovery support: Participants described the programme as a meaningful step in their mental health recovery.

A 2014 evaluation of Woodlands for Health highlighted significant benefits for participants:

75% improvement in mood
66% improvement in sleep quality
82% reduction in suicidal thoughts
Enhanced nature connectedness and overall well-being
Many participants have reported reduced anxiety, increased confidence, and a greater sense of purpose following their involvement in the programme.

Woodlands for Health Evaluation Report, 2020

Woodlands for Health: Implementation Guide (2025): Woodlands for Health – Implementation Guide 2025
Woodlands for Health: Evaluation Report (2020): https://www.mentalhealthireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Woodlands-for-Health-Evaluation-Report-2020_FINAL.pdf
Benefits of Group Walking in Forests for People with Significant Mental Ill-Health (2014): https://www.mentalhealthireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Benefits-of-Group-Walking-in-Forests-for-People-with-Significant-Mental-Ill-Health.pdf

Learn More

Climate Conversations Podcast (2023): https://open.spotify.com/episode/6WEbA1lr9UFnxbx44KJYxi?si=ZbL4-NrKRMyowEN6OclNdA
Get Ireland Walking Podcast (2023): https://open.spotify.com/episode/3lbAtnlnRhRYvFneJII2vy?si=8M5EYDkqQ8if5zNXb9OV4Q
Woodlands For Health with 8th President for Ireland Mary McAleese (2021): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2D58AgSalQ

Get involved

Woodlands for Health is for adults availing of mental health services/ supports meaning participants are referred onto the programme. Woodlands for Health recognises that walking is an activity with a potential risk of personal injury. Participants should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement.