Is Depression More Fatal Than Cancer? One Woman’s Journey Through Nature Therapy
In a world where physical illnesses like cancer frequently enough dominate conversations about health, one Egyptian engineer is challenging the narrative.Iman Allah, a young woman who battled cancer in her teenage years, believes that depression—a silent, invisible illness—can be even more devastating. Her story is not just one of survival but of transformation, as she turned to nature and horticultural therapy to heal her soul.
The Battle with Cancer and the Onset of Depression
Iman Allah’s journey began in high school when she was diagnosed with cancer.“I fought cancer at an early age in high school and recovered from it by removing the thyroid gland,” she shared. despite the physical toll, she excelled academically, achieving a remarkable 96% in her high school certificate. But the removal of her thyroid gland marked the beginning of a new struggle—one that wasn’t physical but deeply psychological.
“With the absence of the thyroid gland, a different kind of journey began, a journey of safety for the soul and not the body,” she explained. The aftermath of her surgery brought symptoms of depression, wich she described as a constant barrage of “no.” “I cannot go to university, I cannot review lessons, no and no,” she recalled.Her mornings became filled with dark thoughts, and her ability to plan her day deteriorated.
Nature as a Healer: The Power of Horticultural Therapy
Persistent to overcome her depression without relying on medication, Iman turned to nature. She found solace in gardening,a practice that allowed her to connect with the life cycle of plants and,in turn,reflect on her own journey. “Perhaps what was most influential in achieving serenity of the soul was the state of Masirah Island, with its pristine beaches and terrain untouched by the materialism of civilization,” she saeid.
Her experiance mirrors the principles of horticultural therapy, a practice researched by Dr. Mohamed Naguib from Cairo University. This therapy evaluates physical, psychological, and mental disabilities and designs customized programs to enhance treatment through exposure to nature, rehabilitation, and relaxation.The goal? To help individuals regain their passion for life and achieve personal and professional success.
A Startup Born from Healing
Inspired by her own recovery, Iman founded “Soul Travel,” a startup that organizes horticultural therapy trips in Egypt. Her mission is to help others who suffer from depression but may not recognize it or feel comfortable seeking psychological support. “I decided to share my experience with others who suffer from depression and do not know it, or who, for social reasons, refrain from seeking psychological support,” she explained.Her approach is rooted in the belief that nature has the power to heal. “Gardening treatment reflects my sense of my soul traveling between life and death, as in the life cycle of a plant,” she said. Through her startup, she aims to create spaces where individuals can reconnect with themselves and the natural world.
The Case for nature Therapy in Public Health
Iman’s story raises an critically important question: Why aren’t we promoting nature therapy more widely in public and private institutions? The Arab world, with its diverse landscapes—from the pristine beaches of Masirah Island to the lush greenery of Oman—offers a unique possibility to integrate nature-based therapies into mental health treatment programs.
As Iman’s experience shows, the benefits of such therapies extend beyond mental health. They can reignite a sense of purpose, improve daily functioning, and foster a deeper connection to the world around us.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Primary Challenge | Depression following thyroid gland removal after cancer treatment. |
| Healing method | Horticultural therapy and nature immersion. |
| Key Insight | Depression can be more devastating than physical illnesses like cancer. |
| startup Initiative | “Soul Travel” organizes horticultural therapy trips in Egypt. |
| call to Action | Promote nature therapy in public and private mental health programs. |
A Call to Action
Iman Allah’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the healing power of nature. As she continues to advocate for nature therapy, her message is clear: Depression is not a life sentence.With the right tools and support, it is indeed possible to reclaim one’s life and find joy in the simple beauty of the natural world.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, consider exploring nature-based therapies.Whether it’s a walk in the park, tending to a garden, or a trip to a serene destination, the healing power of nature is within reach.
The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of Al Jazeera Network.
