I’m passionate about the mental health benefits of outdoor activities.
Whenever I’ve faced tough times or difficult challenges, I’ve always turned to the outdoors or nature as part of my healing process. Whether that’s going on an arduous trek or simply chilling on my paddleboard with my toes dipped in the sea.
Outdoor therapy: finding solace and strength in nature's embrace.
Stu Skinner, Founder
I’m passionate about the mental health benefits of outdoor activities, which is why I pursued a career as an Expedition Leader and founded a mental health charity with the mission to normalise conversations about mental health, especially in the outdoor industry.
In my ongoing recovery journey, I have come across outstanding organisations and inspirational individuals who harness the life-changing power of the outdoors to support people on their mental journey, who make the outdoors more accessible to people with mental health challenges, or simply inspire people to live their lives more adventurously and reap the mental health benefits.
So much of this work goes unnoticed. But, we do exist.
There are many that are unaware that organisations and services like this exist. I’m sure there are many people, who like me, found traditional approaches to managing mental health helpful, but soon discovered that their self-esteem and self-confidence didn’t come in a pill or though talking therapy. I got both of those in abundance through summitting a mountain, connecting to others on a long walk or simply enjoying the stillness of sitting under the stars.
It's for these reasons that I am launching the Head Outside Awards. I want them to be a celebration of the individuals the people and organisations who champion the mental health benefits of our natural world through outdoor activities. I also hope it will inspire people to live their lives more adventurously and take advantage of the mental health benefits of outdoor activity.
Meet the Team
Stu Skinner
Founder & Co-host
Mary-Anne Ochota
Host
Hayley Bryant
Director