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VA nurse's courtyard garden supports Veterans in mental health rehabilitation program
A registered nurse at the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System turned an outdoor courtyard into a garden for Veterans in its residential mental health rehabilitation program, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
In an Oct. 12 article by Dr. Romaine Hatten, chief nurse for behavioral health services at the system, the VA said the nurse, identified as Robin, began reviving the sitting area used by Veterans admitted to the program. She brought dirt, tools and tomato plants, and Veterans soon joined the effort, the department said. Those who could not take part physically found other ways to show support.
The VA said the garden offered exercise, sunlight, fresh air and a sense of accomplishment, and helped Veterans connect with nature and with each other.
The article quoted a letter from one Veteran in the program. He wrote that the courtyard at first "lacked a whole lot of something," and that working in the soil felt like therapy. He compared the garden's growth to a tai chi class that grew from 10 to 40 participants, and suggested gardening be made a formal part of the program's curriculum.
"I hope the work continues after I'm gone," he wrote.
The department said Veterans in crisis can call 988 and press 1, or text 838255.
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
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