“My eyes first started to itch and become painful around seven months ago. At first, I didn’t think it was a big problem. I bought some eye drops without seeking a doctor’s advice, but this only aggravated the situation.
Eventually I couldn’t even go outside. I would wear sunglasses and stay inside all day. The problem was unbearable. I started to forget about the joys and the beauty nature boasts.”
Connection to nature is important to our mental health, and is associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety. Yet as Anwara’s eye condition rapidly worsened, she found herself isolated and cut off from the natural sights she loved.