Blossoming on the bog - The role of bogs in the maintenance and improvement of mental health for a group of people attending the mental health services in Counties Louth and Meath in Ireland.

Carvill, Clare (2025) Blossoming on the bog - The role of bogs in the maintenance and improvement of mental health for a group of people attending the mental health services in Counties Louth and Meath in Ireland. Masters thesis, Dundalk Institute of Technology.

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Abstract

This research study aimed to explore the role of nature-based therapeutic interventions (specifically in bog environments) on the maintenance and improvement of mental health in a group of people attending the mental health services for support in the North East of Ireland in Counties Louth and Meath. There is evidence both in Ireland and internationally, of the benefits that spending time in natural environments has on mental health and overall wellbeing. Many research studies have shown the positive impact of nature-based interventions on psychological, physical and social well-being with findings indicating reductions in stress, anxiety, low mood and blood pressure, activation of the parasympathetic nervous system and the promotion of social, self and nature connectedness, reducing feelings of loneliness. This study was comprised of an 8-week programme, in which individuals attended the bog for 2 hours every week to participate in activities. These activities included walking, bird watching, learning about the flora and fauna, photography, artwork, poetry and engaging in mindfulness and meditation activities within the bog. Co-production was a key element in this study. Co-production is a collaborative approach which involves shared decision-making, team work and equality. The study promoted a recovery-orientated approach to mental health care, building on individual strengths and goals. This research study had a mixed methods design, using both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The quantitative approach consisted of four validated questionnaires, which participants completed on the first and final weeks of the programme. In order to collect qualitative data, participants took part in focus groups following the programmes completion. The findings of the research have been profound, with reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms for participants, enhanced wellbeing, social and nature connection, empowerment and a sense of belonging. The study highlights the role of bogs as community spaces where people can go to connect with themselves, each other and their cultural heritage.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Subjects:	Social Sciences
Research Centres:	UNSPECIFIED
Depositing User:	Aine McHugh
Date Deposited:	08 Oct 2025 12:14
Last Modified:	08 Oct 2025 12:14
License:	Creative Commons: Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0
URI:	https://eprints.dkit.ie/id/eprint/949

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