At a time when the World Health Organisation (WHO) is predicting depression will be the second biggest illness by 2020 — it’s time we took control of our own lives and those of future generations. Caroline presents the evidence on why our disconnection with nature is resulting in us being ‘fish out of water’ and shares the benefits of being outdoors and immersed in the natural world and how this free medicine or therapy – call it what you will — has benefited her and the young people she works alongside.

From an early age, environmental issues, the great outdoors and an interest in the wider world has defined who I am and the choices I have made about my own life and career. My roles have included Director of an environmental charity on the Thames in London, Government Advisor, University Lecturer and Researcher and senior Local Government Manager -working in the areas of sustainability, environment, waste/resource management, and supporting vulnerable people. All of this has culminated in my current role as the Director at Bore Place www.boreplace.org — a not for profit organisation working to connect people with themselves, to each other and the natural world.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx