On Mental Health and Nature
(Written in May 2023/ Capstone Research)
Over half of the United States population will experience changes in their mental health that may affect themselves, their workplace, and their families. More than 50% of Americans will be diagnosed with some type of mental illness or disorder at a point in their lifetime, as stated in “About Mental Health'' (cdc.gov). The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines mental illnesses as “health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior,” associated with a person’s abilities relative to “functioning in social, work or family activities” (What Is Mental Illness, apa.org). A vital change that can be implemented immediately to yield public health benefits is to incorporate more time spent in nature or green space to people worldwide. Science proves that more time spent outdoors can aid in reversing this statistic that affects half the American population. Through increased exposure to fresh air and natural light, people can experience lessened risks of mental conditions or lowered symptoms. Additionally, there may be similar benefits from incorporating green spaces into more urban areas and indoor office environments to mimic natural outdoor elements. Without implementing crucial changes to strengthen the connection between humans and nature, mental health will continue to decline worldwide. It is of utmost importance for public health, communities, and society as a whole to revisit the importance of the connection between humans and nature.
Abstract~ This paper describes the correlation between rising mental health conditions and time human beings have to spend in nature. Human beings need access to nature to help combat the increase of patients being diagnosed with mental health conditions and yield favorable public health results. Researchers have proven that exposure to certain elements in nature can benefit mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. It is vital to find a solution to the increasing rate of mental health conditions, which are scientifically proven to affect peoples’ abilities to function in society worldwide with problems in the workplace and home life. In analyzing field data conducted by scientific researchers on the benefits of outdoor exposure and topic authorities on mental health, findings in this paper suggest that nature contains healing elements to alleviate rising mental health diagnoses worldwide. Results from this research suggest general solutions that require accessibility to natural light, fresh air, or a green space in an otherwise urban environment.
