Psychology and the environment

This year's Psychology Week, 28 October - 3 November, will focus on Psychology and the environment. This year's theme provides members and member groups an opportunity to explore the intersection of psychology and environmental issues. For our Member Groups it could mean hosting local activities to understand how environmental factors influence behaviour and wellbeing, to promote sustainable practices, and address the psychological impacts of climate change, on the back of the APS Thinking Futures report.

Our Member Groups may wish to encourage conversations about sustainable behaviours, ask members to reflect on the mental health benefits of nature, and encourage members to share strategies for building resilience against stressful environmental contexts.

Member Groups may like to explore or encourage enhancing community well-being through environmental projects and inspiring responsible actions that benefit both individuals and the environment.

Start the converstion

Events or displays run during Psychology Week are a great way to share and promote psychology with the community in engaging ways that benefit everyone. 
APS Member Groups are encouraged to host local events.

Some ideas include:

Group meditations
Climate change documentary viewings followed by group discussions
Virtual or local meetups to discuss the impact of environmental changes on mental health
Nature walks and outdoor mindfulness sessions
Local clean-up events and eco-friendly challenges

Tips for hosting a successful event

Post social content on your personal LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram accounts to spread the word (and feel free to tag APS so we can see all the great activities going on).

Share details of your events within PsyCommunity to connect with the network of other APS members.

Tips for organising meetings outdoors

Find a location with Wi-Fi

Try hot spotting from your mobile or work offline to do some more creative work that is enhanced from being ‘switched-off’.

Take something to sit on 

Depending on the kind of work you’re doing or the availability of seating, it’s always good to take something to sit on so you’re comfortable.

Go for a walk

Walking meetings are great way to get your steps in while collaborating with others. Make sure you choose a location that’s relatively quiet and ensure appropriate footwear is worn.

Don’t lose your focus 

It’s easy to get distracted when you’re surrounded by beautiful sights and sounds. Stick to what you had planned for yourself or team and you’re more likely to make outdoor meetings a regular habit.

Have fun 

Enjoy the fresh air and have fun with your team. 20 minutes outdoors can have the same pick-me-up effect as a cup of coffee.