A KEEN photographer has made it his mission to raise awareness of how beneficial nature and photography is for our mental health and wellbeing.

Verwood resident Trevor Parsons experienced the healing power of nature following two mental breakdowns in his life.

Now, he wants to help other people by showing them how nature and a hobby to focus on can gradually improve your wellbeing.

Trevor said: "My second mental breakdown happened in 2013 and 2014. I was constantly worrying and spiralled into depression and paranoia. It was a cycle I didn't know how to break. My doctor knew I loved nature so she suggested I set a timer on my phone and go take pictures in the Bournemouth Gardens. Once the timer finished, I would go home and write about what I did.

"As I became more comfortable, I increased my timer."

Along with nature, social media has played an important part in Trevor's recovery as he has been able to share his photography and words of wisdom to people across the UK.

Trevor describes Twitter as his "encyclopedia" and uses it to reach out to a variety of people.

He said: "I really want to tell my story and help people. I can't be the only one out there with a mental illness."

Engaging with people on Twitter has seen Trevor receive support and a following from Levi Roots, Russell Grant, Sian Williams, WWF UK and many more, helping him to further share his story.

Trevor wants to use his experience to reduce the stigma around mental illnesses and to inspire others to share their stories.

He said: "I am a mouthpiece now and large enough to tell people what helped me. The stigma is not as prominent but it still needs more work. The more open people are about mental illness, the more people will talk and get help.

"This is the first time I have stretched myself after working in the same job for 27 years. This has opened up a whole new world to me.

"I love the countryside, you just don't know what will be around the corner."