Lab Chat: Building green spaces for mental health
Increasingly, scientists are finding that spending time in nature can be beneficial for mental health. In a new study published in Science Advances, researchers gather evidence for this link and suggest that cities and developers ought to think more about making green spaces accessible — for the mental health of citizens. I spoke with Gretchen Daily, the paper’s lead author and an environmental scientist at Stanford University, to learn more.
What is the evidence to link mental health and being out in nature?
People experiencing nature in different ways have lower stress and anxiety, and improved cognitive function such as better memory. There are also huge ramifications for schoolkids, for example. Schoolkids perform better and are more creative when they have access to nature.
Is this a personal or public health issue?
It’s a huge equity and health justice issue. If you look at cities, you can tell the wealthy neighborhoods because they are leafier [and greener]. It’s about improving access [to natural areas] through public transportation or other programs provided by employers and schools.
What is the evidence to link mental health and being out in nature?
People experiencing nature in different ways have lower stress and anxiety, and improved cognitive function such as better memory. There are also huge ramifications for schoolkids, for example. Schoolkids perform better and are more creative when they have access to nature.
Is this a personal or public health issue?
It’s a huge equity and health justice issue. If you look at cities, you can tell the wealthy neighborhoods because they are leafier [and greener]. It’s about improving access [to natural areas] through public transportation or other programs provided by employers and schools.
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