L.L.Bean Encourages Outdoor Connection for Mental Health Month with 'Off the Grid' Initiative
May is recognized as Mental Health Month, and this year, L.L.Bean is making a significant effort to promote mental wellness through its 'Off the Grid' initiative. For the fourth consecutive year, the outdoor lifestyle brand will pause its social media activities to emphasize the importance of spending time outdoors. Research indicates that 79% of Americans believe that being in nature positively impacts their mental health. In collaboration with Mental Health America, L.L.Bean is encouraging everyone to unplug from their digital lives and embrace outdoor experiences.
The connection between nature and mental well-being is well-supported by research. Studies demonstrate that even short outings can yield anxiety-reducing effects while simultaneously boosting creativity and self-esteem. This aligns seamlessly with L.L.Bean's mission to inspire individuals to explore and experience the healing powers of the environment.
Shawn Gorman, the Executive Chairman of L.L.Bean, articulated the purpose behind this initiative: "In a world that expects constant connection, we want to encourage everyone to take a step back from their screens and reconnect with nature. This endeavor isn't merely about disconnecting digitally; it emphasizes reconnecting with ourselves outside."
L.L.Bean's commitment to mental health is reflected in their multi-year partnership with Mental Health America. This collaboration has spurred research into outdoor activity’s effects on mental wellness and enables individuals to access helpful mental health resources. Based on their research, spending time outdoors fosters connections that can either be solitary, such as solo hikes, or structured social opportunities, such as group outings.
Moreover, since the initiation of the 'Off the Grid' initiative in 2022, L.L.Bean has made considerable investments—over $18 million—to foster outdoor engagement. These funds support various programs and challenges designed to promote mindfulness and encourage participation in outdoor activities. In a collaborative effort with Mental Health America, L.L.Bean has contributed $700,000 for initiatives that enhance accessibility to outdoor experiences for local communities across the U.S., impacting over 90,000 hours spent outdoors.
During Mental Health Month, visitors can find a plethora of resources, tips, and tools provided by L.L.Bean aimed at helping people plan their outdoor adventures. These tools are tailored to be inclusive and adaptable, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their experience level, can benefit from being outside.
Schroeder Stribling, President and CEO of Mental Health America, highlighted the significance of their collaboration, stating: "Together, we aim to illustrate the powerful connection shared between time spent outdoors and improvements in mental wellbeing. It’s crucial for individuals to realize that seeking help is an important step in prioritizing one's mental health."
This May, L.L.Bean invites everyone to step outside, engage with their natural surroundings, and experience the rejuvenating effects that nature can offer. By embracing a less distracted lifestyle, the brand encourages individuals to find solace and tranquility in nature, promoting a vital dialogue around mental health and wellness in our increasingly digital world. For more information on Mental Health Month and available resources, visit the official website of Mental Health America.