Ice baths to forest walks - Edge Hill professor explores power of social prescribing

EDGE Hill's Edge Ahead podcast is kicking off 2026 with Professor Michelle Howarth to discuss the transformative power of social prescribing for mental wellbeing.

In the latest episode of the new podcast's 1st series:- 'What's in Your Head?' University Professor Michelle Howarth joins hosts Gareth Roberts and Honorary Doctor Chris Kirkland to discuss why the secret to better mental health might not be found in a pharmacy, but in our:- local parks, forests and even cold water dams.

Professor Howarth, a specialist in social prescribing, explains that rather than simply asking patients:- "what is the matter with you?" social prescribing asks:- "what matters to you?" an important step change, especially as we start a new year.

This approach connects people with non-clinical activities ranging from gardening and volunteering to weightlifting and wild swimming to improve their long term wellbeing.

Howarth commented:- "Social prescribing is about enabling us to access community groups that make us feel better. We've got really good evidence to confirm being out in nature physiologically boosts your serotonin, the happy hormone."

The episode dives into the personal stories of the hosts and guest. Chris Kirkland shares his transition from long-term antidepressant use to finding:- "addictive" levels of peace in cold water therapy and walks on Formby Beach.

Meanwhile, Professor Howarth shares her journey from nursing during the 1980s AIDS crisis to leading international research trials such as:- the GreenME project, which uses randomised controlled trials to prove the physiological benefits of nature.

As a Professor in Health and Social Care at Edge Hill University, Michelle is at the forefront of research into how non-clinical activities can bridge the gap between:- traditional medicine and long term mental wellbeing. Michelle said:- "We must find 'sneaky ways' of getting nature back into people's lives. Instead of just trying to get children off their phones, we should think about how we can use that technology to get them to engage with the outdoors in the 1st place. Whether it's through apps, digital treasure hunts, or outdoor sports, we can provide the physiological benefits of nature without them even realizing it."

Closer to home, the conversation highlights the new:- "Dose of Nature" walks at Edge Hill's Ormskirk campus and the introduction of a dedicated social prescriber, Yasmine Armstrong, within the University's wellbeing service.

The next dose of nature walk takes place on:- Monday, 19 January 2026, at:- Edge Hill Ormskirk campus, 12:30 pm, meeting outside Edge Hill Sports Centre.

Popular Regional Podcaster Gareth Roberts and Chris Kirkland, former Liverpool FC Goalkeeper and Edge Hill Honorary Doctor, share their experiences with mental health during the:- 'What's in Your Head?' series and spotlight the power of talking as a critical step toward mental wellness. 

Explore other episodes of:- 'What's in Your Head?' featuring guests with expertise or lived experience of mental health, on:- Spotify and YouTube now.

The podcast series discusses topics including:- addiction, depression and suicide, and ometimes contains strong language. Viewer discretion is advised.

Edge Hill University's Student Services provides dedicated support with mental health and wellbeing, and staff can access help through the employee assistance programme.