Planting Hope: How a Gardening Group Helped Heal Depression

In an unassuming corner of East London, behind a doctor’s clinic, something remarkable happened. What was once a neglected alley—dubbed "dog shit alley" by locals—became a thriving community garden. But more than just flowers and vegetables grew there; hope, connection, and healing took root as well.

Dr. Sam Everington, a general practitioner, saw firsthand how many of his patients struggled with depression and anxiety. He also saw that medication alone wasn’t always enough. So, he tried something different. Instead of only prescribing pills, he prescribed something else: a gardening group.

Patients who had been feeling isolated and hopeless were invited to participate. Together, they transformed the rundown space into a vibrant garden. They dug, planted, and nurtured—both the plants and their sense of purpose. Along the way, they built friendships, gained confidence, and found meaning beyond their struggles.

The impact was profound. Many participants reported feeling better, not just because of the fresh air and exercise, but because they had something to care for—and people who cared for them. The simple act of working together on a shared project helped rebuild a sense of belonging that had been missing in their lives.

Dr. Everington’s approach, known as "social prescribing," has since inspired similar initiatives around the world. His gardening group serves as a reminder that mental health isn’t just about brain chemistry—it’s also about connection, purpose, and community.

Maybe the best medicine isn’t always found in a bottle. Sometimes, it’s found in the soil, in shared laughter, in the quiet satisfaction of watching something grow.

The Eight Causes of Depression—And Why Connection Matters

Johann Hari, in his book Lost Connections, identifies eight major causes of depression, many of which stem from a loss of connection in different areas of life. These include disconnection from meaningful work, other people, meaningful values, status and respect, a hopeful or secure future, and nature. Additionally, trauma and genetics can play a role, but many of the most profound causes relate to how we engage with the world around us.

The power of connection in healing depression cannot be overstated. When people experience loneliness or a lack of purpose, their mental health can deteriorate. That’s why projects like Dr. Everington’s gardening group are so powerful. They don’t just offer an activity; they rebuild the essential human need for connection.

Gardening connects people to nature, fostering a sense of grounding and peace. It also connects people to each other, providing social interaction that is free of pressure and expectation. The act of caring for a plant mirrors the process of caring for oneself, reinforcing a sense of agency and self-worth.

By addressing some of the key causes of depression—especially disconnection from people, nature, and purpose—gardening groups create a foundation for mental well-being that goes beyond traditional therapy.

Catherine Thornber is a psychotherapist in Boulder, Colorado. She facilatates garden groups for clients and community members to increase wellbeing, health, and connection with self and other.