Summary
Doctors are increasingly recommending activities like joining choirs, art classes, or fishing instead of just medicine to help patients feel better. This approach, called social prescribing, is growing in places like the U.K. and the U.S. to address loneliness and improve both mental and physical health.
Key Facts
- Social prescribing means doctors suggest social activities or services, such as art, nature outings, or support groups, to improve health.
- The U.K.’s National Health Service started social prescribing in 2019 and has made over 5.5 million referrals since then.
- Common social prescriptions in the U.K. include housing advice, debt counseling, and engagement in arts and nature.
- Some studies show people who do creative activities regularly are less likely to develop depression.
- A global study found surgical patients who listened to music needed fewer pain medications.
- The Netherlands has offered similar programs for over 15 years, including cycling and tai chi groups.
- In the U.S., pilot programs in several states promote social prescribing, aiming for national availability by 2035.
- Social prescribing may reduce hospital overcrowding and help with chronic diseases, especially as the elderly population grows worldwide.
