With so many beaches along the Jurassic Coast, you may be tempted to nip in the sea for a dip.

In West Dorset alone, beaches such as East Beach at West Bay, Seatown Beach, and Sandy Beach in Lyme Regis are popular with sea swimmers.

But could going for a swim in the sea actually be beneficial to our mental health?

There is currently research into whether cold water/sea swimming can improve one's mental health, including depression.

The first case report in the British Medical Journal covered the story of a 24-year-old woman, who had suffered with symptoms of depression from the age of 17.

After a programme of weekly open (cold) water swimming, the woman noticed an improvement, and a year on, has no longer felt the need for medication.

Chief executive of Dorset Mind, Marianne Storey, has said that being active in itself is an excellent way to improve your mental health.

Marianne said:"Swimming is particularly beneficial as it makes you feel more relaxed.

"It helps to limit racing thoughts because being submerged in the water is such an immersive sensory experience.

"Water is extremely therapeutic and water buoyancy is particularly good if you have restricted movement too.

"It's a great way of getting way from everyday stresses and clearing your head."

Malcolm Greenslade swims in the sea at Lyme Bay regularly, and also teaches others to swim in the sea.

Malcolm said: "I receive a lot of calls from people new to the sea environment who contact me with request for tuition/coaching or guidance in sea swimming because either they have read or heard something about this phenomena.

"Many have gone on to be real converts and love the social interaction and the community feel amongst swimmers whilst others find it helps them cope with some personal difficulties in life without the need of turning to alcohol or drugs.

"Many who swim regularly actually look forward to the colder waters of winter to really get the buzz."

One of the sea swimming calendar's most popular events, Lyme Splash, was a sell-out this year, with participants noting the benefits of sea swimming.

Karen Durham-Diggins, chairman of Lyme Splash, said: "I personally find sea swimming good for my mental health. It provides a completely different environment that I can focus on in a positive way.

"The cold water is invigorating and I find it stimulating. I feel great after a swim, whatever the season, it raises my endorphin levels, which obviously creates the feelgood factor.

"The feedback we receive from our swimmers who take part in Lyme Splash's annual swim report feeling these benefits as well as the challenge of taking part, whether they're interested in their time or just being able to complete the 3.15 kilometre swim."

For more information on safe spots to swim in the sea or for tips, visit outdoorswimmingsociety.com

If you are struggling with mental health or suicidal thoughts, call the following helplines:

Samaritans 116 123

Papyrus (for those aged under 35) 0800 068 41 41

Childline (for children and young people under 19) 0800 1111

The Silver Line (for older people) 0800 4 70 80 90