Ecopsychology

This study examined how people's connection to nature affects the mental health benefits of visiting green spaces. Data from over 2,000 Australians showed that frequent visits to green spaces reduced stress, anxiety, and depression. However, individuals with a stronger connection to nature experienced more significant improvements. Those less connected to nature were less mindful and intentional during visits, limiting benefits. The study suggests that fostering a deeper connection to nature can amplify its psychological advantages, supporting mental well-being and cognitive restoration.

This narrative review discusses the diverse ways nature benefits human health beyond visual experiences, emphasizing underexplored sensory and non-sensory pathways. These include the sounds of birds and water, which reduce stress, and natural smells, like flowers, that improve mood and alertness. Interactions with soil microbes and negative air ions may support immune function and reduce inflammation. Touch, such as petting animals, lowers stress and boosts mood. These insights deepen our understanding of how nature experiences enhance mental health, cognitive restoration, and overall well-being.

This narrative review introduces Clinical Ecopsychology, which examines how the climate crisis impacts mental health through pathways like stress, anxiety, and identity loss. Extreme weather, pollution, and environmental changes amplify mental health risks, especially in vulnerable groups. Positive connections with nature can buffer stress and improve well-being, but ecological grief and eco-anxiety are rising concerns. The study calls for integrating mental health strategies, such as fostering resilience and nature-based therapies, to adapt to the escalating environmental crisis and protect cognitive and emotional health.

This study analyzed how exposure to neighborhood nature—specifically vegetation cover and bird abundance—affects mental health. Data from over 1,000 urban residents revealed that areas with more vegetation (20–30% cover) and active birdlife during the day were linked to lower rates of depression, anxiety, and stress. The findings emphasize that visible nature, like greenery and birds, can support mental well-being by reducing stress and enhancing cognitive recovery. These results suggest urban planning strategies should incorporate accessible green spaces to improve public health outcomes.

This review highlights ecotherapy, a therapeutic use of nature-based activities, as a vital yet underappreciated ecosystem service. It supports mental and physical health through green exercise, horticultural therapy, and exposure to natural landscapes. Benefits include reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improved mood and cognitive function. Ecotherapy also enhances recovery from illness and fosters resilience. While evidence supports its efficacy, much is correlational, and further research is needed to establish stronger causal links.

The American Psychological Association's article "Nurtured by Nature" examines the psychological benefits of spending time in natural environments. It highlights that exposure to nature is associated with improved attention, reduced stress, enhanced mood, and lower risk of psychiatric disorders. Additionally, nature exposure fosters empathy and cooperation. The article discusses theories such as the biophilia hypothesis, which suggests an innate human connection to nature, and attention restoration theory, proposing that natural settings replenish cognitive resources. Research indicates that even brief interactions with nature, like viewing green spaces, can enhance cognitive functions, including working memory and attentional control. These findings underscore the significance of integrating nature into daily life to bolster brain health and cognitive performance. Engaging in activities like walking in parks, gardening, or simply observing natural scenes can mitigate stress and improve mental well-being. Given the APA's credibility and the research cited, incorporating regular nature exposure is a practical recommendation for enhancing cognitive function and overall mental health.

This large-scale study explored how time spent in nature impacts health and well-being. Analyzing data from nearly 20,000 adults in England, the researchers found that spending at least 120 minutes per week in natural environments significantly improved self-reported health and life satisfaction compared to no nature exposure. Benefits peaked between 200–300 minutes weekly but plateaued thereafter. These findings emphasize the importance of regular, moderate nature exposure for mental and physical health, providing a measurable guideline for promoting well-being through time in green spaces.

This study assessed the effects of urban nature experiences (NEs) on stress using saliva biomarkers (cortisol and alpha-amylase) over an 8-week period. Thirty-six urban dwellers spent 20–30 minutes, at least three times weekly, in a green space of their choice. Results showed a significant stress hormone reduction, with cortisol dropping 21.3% per hour beyond its natural diurnal decrease. Amylase dropped 28.1% in low-activity participants (sitting or light walking). Benefits plateaued after 30 minutes, offering a practical guideline for effective "nature pills." This research validates time in nature as a measurable and impactful stress-reduction tool.