In recent years, the popularity of hobby farming has increased due to its significant benefits. People start hobby farms for a variety of different reasons, but in the process, they may realize other unexpected advantages. Some of these benefits include better mental health, a reliable food source, and an ideal way to engage in physical exercise. At Rose Hill Center, we offer our residents the opportunity to learn about hobby farming and the positive impact this activity can have on their mental health. To learn more about our hobby farm and our other mental health treatment services, reach out to our team today at 866.367.0220.
What is a Hobby Farm?
Hobby farming involves using a small piece of land to grow crops and keep animals for leisure. The main idea behind this activity is cultivating and tending to animals to stay active and occupied.
There are many benefits to starting a hobby farm. For example, you can use your hobby farm to grow vegetables. When you grow your own vegetables and produce, you no longer need to buy them from the grocery store and question if there are added chemicals. Adding additional preservatives, chemicals, and pesticides is unfortunately common for fresh food items like vegetables, meat, and milk.
The Connection Between a Hobby Farm and Mental Health
A common trigger of mental health conditions is upsetting emotions like sadness, hopelessness, and stress. Most people experience these feelings when they are idle or when they are alone and feel isolated. Farming activities can increase the production of dopamine, which increases happiness and reduces undesirable emotions. This hormone can also lower blood pressure and reduce stress.
Another link between a hobby farm and mental health treatment originates from eating a healthy and balanced diet. A significant number of people that engage in hobby farming grow organic foods and avoid using chemicals.
When hobby farming, one may interact with other farmers and businesses that supply various products. This interaction can help build new relationships and reduce loneliness, especially for people that live alone. It also allows them to share experiences that may cause stress, helping reduce mental health issues.
Hobby Farm Activities that Can Help Improve Mental Health
At Rose Hill Center, we have a hobby farm that our residents can enjoy. Our residents can care for sheep, horses, bunnies, and care for plants in our greenhouse. Each of these services can help you improve your mental and physical health.
For instance, we’ve found that horse keeping offers many physical and mental health benefits. Since these animals’ social and responsive behaviors are similar to those of humans, one can easily connect with them. In addition to hobby farming, our residential mental health treatment facility offers a variety of therapy options available to residents. As part of psychotherapy treatment, we help patients develop skills like self-confidence, responsibility, and trust. Our specialists also use individual therapy to educate residents on social skills, emotional control, and identifying boundaries.
Furthermore, we offer a range of helpful therapy programs, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
Contact Rose Hill Center for Mental Health Treatment
Getting mental health treatment will allow you to learn how to control emotions for a better life. At Rose Hill Center, we provide various rehabilitation services to improve your well-being. We have many activities to keep you occupied during your stay and help you achieve wellness goals. Our specialists can also educate you on the connection between a hobby farm and mental health conditions. This knowledge will allow you to embrace engaging and beneficial farming activities. Reach out to Rose Hill Center today at 866.367.0220 to join any of our services.