Mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, can be overwhelming, particularly when one feels isolated. However, it is important to recognize that these issues do not always have to be confronted alone. Engaging in mental health activities within a group setting can often yield greater benefits. Whether participating with individuals facing similar struggles or alongside friends and family, activities like exercising and dancing can significantly enhance your mood. This not only reinforces the notion that you are not alone but also fosters a sense of accountability within a dedicated group, aiding in the maintenance of a consistent routine. Below are several group mental health activities that can effectively alleviate stress and anxiety.

Do group activities contribute to mental well-being?  

Indeed, group activities and social interactions play a crucial role in mental health. According to mental health expert Dr. Ajit Dandekar, group mental health activities can cultivate social awareness, diminish feelings of isolation, and provide a sense of belonging. Being part of a group also offers an emotional and psychological safety net, enabling individuals to share and learn from one another’s experiences, create new opportunities, and develop their skills.

6 group mental health activities that can help

When it comes to mental health activities, those done in a group are beneficial. Here are some ideas for you to try out

1. Arts and gardening

Engaging in sessions focused on arts and crafts, entertainment events, and social cognition and interaction training (SCIT), which is a type of group therapy, represents some of the most effective group mental health activities to consider. Dr. Dandekar notes the emergence of innovative concepts such as therapeutic horticulture, where individuals participate in gardening tasks like planting and watering. These activities are beneficial in alleviating stress and enhancing mood.

2. Participation in support group meetings  

One of the most valuable group mental health activities involves connecting with individuals facing similar challenges. Support groups tailored to specific diseases or conditions provide a platform for participants to share their experiences in a secure environment, promoting emotional support and diminishing stigma, as explained by Dr. Dandekar. Research published in the International Journal of Mental Health Systems emphasizes the significance of peer support for individuals with long-term mental health issues in their recovery journey.

These groups are most effective when composed of 8 to 12 members, facilitating diverse yet manageable discussions. Various games can be incorporated into these sessions to help participants become acquainted and comfortable with one another. For instance, a problem-solving circle can be organized where the group discusses mental health challenges and collaboratively develops coping strategies. Another activity could involve journaling, followed by sharing the written reflections with the group.

3. Exercising and sports

When discussing group mental health activities, it is essential to incorporate physical exercises. These exercises not only enhance physical fitness but also elevate mood through the release of endorphins. Typically, such activities are conducted with groups of 10 to 15 participants. Engaging in group exercises and team sports fosters a sense of belonging and social support, which can alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness among individuals suffering from depression, as indicated by research published in the journal Behavioral Sciences. Each of these activities contributes to strengthening social connections, diminishing loneliness, and promoting skill development within a supportive environment.

4. Dancing  

Participating in group dancing is an excellent mental health activity that can promote calmness and happiness. Sessions such as Zumba or freestyle dancing can elevate mood and enhance group cohesion. This form of exercise increases the production of dopamine and serotonin, which helps improve mood and alleviate depressive symptoms. Dancing in a group setting fortifies social connections and mitigates feelings of loneliness.

5. Yoga and meditation  

Yoga and meditation serve as beneficial activities for both individuals and groups in the realm of mental health. Yoga is effective in reducing cortisol levels, which in turn diminishes stress. The deep breathing techniques associated with yoga help to soothe the nervous system. Practicing yoga in a group fosters a sense of community, thereby lessening feelings of isolation and loneliness. Activities such as laughter yoga and partner yoga are particularly effective in strengthening social ties while alleviating stress. In terms of meditation, group practice enhances accountability and motivation, making it easier to maintain a consistent daily routine.

6. Group walking

Walking in a group can also help you feel happier. This is one of the easiest group mental health activities that you can do. All you have to do is choose a group of people to walk within a structured or informal setting, such as a park. It is a low-impact activity that promotes both physical and mental well-being while fostering social connections. A silent nature walk is one such example.

What to keep in mind while doing group mental health activities?

While group mental health activities are essential for holistic personal growth, there are some points that need to be kept in mind in terms of selecting your group, as well as the task at hand.

• Mixing with a toxic group can be equally damaging. Hence, it’s essential to create a safe and inclusive environment.
• The activity should match the interests and comfort levels of all the participants to ensure engagement. This is possible with a skilled facilitator, who usually guides the group on the course of discussion, encourages everyone to participate and maintains boundaries wherever necessary.
• The sessions need to be consistent so that the participants build self-trust and see long-term benefits.
• A most important aspect is also transparency and no one feels pressured or judged during these activities is key to their success.

Possible risks in group mental health activities

While group mental health activities can help you keep stress and anxiety at bay, there are some possible risks as well, that need to be mitigated.