Time in nature provides mental health benefits so long as it’s by choice.
Exposure to natural environments has been found to be associated with a lower risk of common mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression). Researchers examined the nature-related motivation and experiences of people with mental health disorders by drawing on data from an 18-country survey (n =18,838) that was focused on recreational use of green (e.g., parks and woodlands) and blue (e.g., rivers and lakes) spaces. Use of prescribed medication for depression or anxiety was used as a proxy for having a common mental health disorder. Motivation to visit nature was high for all. Most individuals with a mental health disorder visited nature at least once a week. However, while perceived social pressure to visit nature was associated with a higher likelihood of doing so, it was also associated with less motivation to visit nature, lower visit happiness and higher visit anxiety. The researchers recommend sensitivity with ‘green prescription’ programs so that individuals are assisted to feel motivated rather than pressured into visiting nature.
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-75825-9
Disclaimer: Published in InPsych on January 2021. The APS aims to ensure that information published in InPsych is current and accurate at the time of publication. Changes after publication may affect the accuracy of this information. Readers are responsible for ascertaining the currency and completeness of information they rely on, which is particularly important for government initiatives, legislation or best-practice principles which are open to amendment. The information provided in InPsych does not replace obtaining appropriate professional and/or legal advice.