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Study Finds Nature-Based Activities Effective in Treating Anxiety and Depression
- A study conducted in Humber and North Yorkshire, England, revealed the effectiveness of nature-based interventions in improving mental health conditions like anxiety and depression within 12 weeks.
- Green social prescribing involves recommending nature-based activities as supplementary treatments for mental health issues, encompassing horticulture, care farming, outdoor mindfulness, and more.
- The study assessed over 220 participants with mild to moderate mental health symptoms using evaluation metrics and found that longer engagements led to greater improvements in mood and anxiety levels.
- Nature-based activities showed comparable therapeutic benefits to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) within a similar or shorter timeframe, emphasizing their cost-effectiveness and accessibility.
- Meaningful engagement with nature through activities like gardening and care farming enhances the psychological impact and fosters social bonds among participants.
- The study's diverse demographic representation across age groups and genders validates the universal applicability of green social prescribing, particularly benefiting low socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Increased investment in green social prescribing is advocated to bridge gaps in mental health resources, calling for the integration of green social prescribers within healthcare systems.
- Collaboration among academic, healthcare, and community organizations was pivotal in this research, showcasing the necessity of multi-sector partnerships for effective implementation.
- Green social prescribing not only improves individual mental health but also contributes to community environmental health, promoting a holistic approach to wellbeing and preventive care.
- Recognizing community organizations as essential stakeholders and providing them with adequate support is crucial for the sustainability and scalability of nature-based interventions in mental health care.
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