A green light will welcome people into King Edward VII Memorial Hospital next month.

Preston Swan, acting chief operating officer of the Bermuda Hospitals Board, said the soft light will illuminate the main entrance to KEMH’s acute-care wing every night in December to show the importance of mental health.

Highlighting that green is the international colour for mental health awareness, Anna Neilson-Williams, the BHB’s chief of psychiatry, said: “It has been identified as alleviating stress and allowing healing.

“It’s a colour of nature, and in Bermuda is all around us. There is also significant evidence that being around nature is restorative for our mental health.

She added: “On the green theme, please get out and about around the island.

“Take a walk on one of the railways trails or in a park; you will most likely feel much calmer after doing so.”

Dr Neilson-Williams also addressed ways to make the holiday season less stressful, which include setting family boundaries, taking a break from social media and finding things to be grateful for.

She explained: “Ahead of any gift buying, set a budget within your means, to avoid January bills arriving with further stress.

“Essentially try to do things in moderation, as it can be tempting to overindulge.”

Mr Swan added: “As you drive along Point Finger Road, remember the green light means you should breathe deeply, pause from your hurriedness and savour at least a moment of relaxation — it’s good for your mental health.”