Just a few branches could save your peace of mind
Urban Residents and Greenery: Exploring Mental Health Impact
In a world where we're all connected, yet often feel disconnected, the answer might lie closer to home than you think. It's about greenery, nature, and the impact they have on our mental health - but it's much more than that, it's an instinct called biophilia.
"When it comes to our mental state, the presence or absence of nature plays a massive role," says Tony Matthews, an Urban and Environmental Planner and a lecturer at the Griffith University in Queensland, Australia. In this chat, he lets us in on the secret benefits of green areas in our cities and why they matter.
Green and Sunny Side Up
Happiness doesn't need to be hard to find; we just need to look in the right places. And among those places, are cities with more trees, parks, plants, and flowers. Who would have thought, right? But it's true. With fewer green areas, citizens are not only less inclined to walk, leading to weight gain, illnesses, and a grumpy disposition, but the overall health of the city takes a hit too. "If a city is part of our psychological environment, then lots of greenery means better mental health outcomes. It's increasingly understood and accepted," Tony explains.
A Park, A Pal, and a Chat
Let's be honest, sometimes it's hard to find the right words even with the ones we know, but with greenery, communication flows naturally. These places are ideal for meeting new people, catching up with old friends, and making long-lasting connections. "These spaces become a form of a third place, because they're primarily there for socialization, recreation, and people. We perceive them as places with the absence of commercial transactions and presence of nature instead," Tony elaborates.
Loneliness is a real threat in big cities, and sadness follows close behind. Feeling disconnected, neglected, and misunderstood can lead to severe mental health issues, such as depression, substance abuse, and even suicidal thoughts. Green spaces help to reduce those feelings and create a sense of belonging. "It's where social encounters happen, and that's what our minds crave the most," Tony points out.
Cohesion and Connection
One way or another, we are all part of the same world. Sometimes it's easy to forget that, but green spaces help us feel part of something bigger. This feeling of social cohesion is massive for our overall well-being and helps us develop connections with wildlife and each other. "It's the difference between knowing your neighbours and being friends with them," says Tony.
Wildlife Whisperer
They say it takes a village to raise a child, right? The same goes for our city; it takes the whole flock. Whether it's a squirrel, a bird, or a tree, any contact with wildlife brings enormous benefits. It creates a spark in our minds, a connection to the environment, and a sense of belonging. This bond reduces stress levels, boosts our mood, and brings a touch of joy to our day.
Mental Reset
We all need a break now and then, a moment to take a breath, take a pause, and recharge. That's where nature comes in, offering the perfect mental reboot. Green spaces help us unwind, relax, and let go of any tension we might be carrying around. "It's about being in nature, experiencing the colors, the scent, the sounds. It's about feeling the wind in our hair, hearing the birds chirp, and watching the leaves dance," Tony says.
Better Days Ahead
Recovery doesn't sleep, and neither should we. Every day brings new challenges, but green areas make them less daunting by providing a sense of calm, happiness, and a positive outlook on life. Not only do they help us deal with busy days, but they significantly lower our risk of developing mental health problems linked to city living. Whether it's anxiety, depression, or ADHD, green spaces can be a lifesaver.
A Greener Tomorrow
We're connected to nature, and it's time we start acting like it. Ideally, every citizen should be within 400 meters of green space, and every city should have as many street trees as possible. The benefits of greenery are only starting to be understood, but as Tony points out, the more we learn, the more we realize how important nature is for our mental health. It's not just about pretty flowers or cool trees; it's about enhancing our well-being, promoting happiness, and creating a brighter future. As Tony puts it, "it's a win-win situation".
- The presence of green spaces in cities, such as parks, trees, and flowers, can significantly improve mental health outcomes, contributing to better mental health and overall well-being.
- Green spaces not only promote physical health by encouraging people to walk and socialize, but they also play a crucial role in boosting mental health by providing a sense of belonging, reducing stress levels, and fostering positive social connections.
