While the answer to the question “are green spaces good for mental health” is a resounding and rather obvious YES, we’re guessing you came here for a little more information on the why and how. The precise impact parks and garden landscapes have on both our mental health, and our emotional health, are two components that lead to a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle. The truth is, green spaces are crucial for reasons ranging from reducing stress and anxiety to improving cognitive function.

In this blog, our conservation experts at REACH GREEN explain why green spaces have such a profound impact on mental health, and how we can ensure their accessibility for future generations.

The Science Behind Green Spaces and Mental Health

Research has consistently shown a strong correlation between access to green spaces and improved mental health outcomes. For example, this study provided by the National Library of Medicine indicates that spending time in natural environments reduces cortisol levels—the hormone associated with stress—while increasing endorphins and dopamine, which are linked to happiness and relaxation.

A landmark study published in The Lancet found that individuals who lived within 1 kilometer of a green space had a significantly lower risk of experiencing anxiety and depression, and University of Exeter revealed that individuals who spend just two hours per week in nature report significantly higher levels of well-being compared to those who don’t. It’s important to note that the time spent outdoors doesn’t need to be consecutive—even short, frequent visits to green spaces can contribute to long-term mental health benefits.

How Green Spaces Benefit Mental Health

1. Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Green spaces offer a natural escape from the stressors of daily life. This is because individuals who engage in outdoor activities such as walking, gardening, or simply sitting in nature are often found to experience lower stress levels and improved mood. Imagine taking in a deep breath of the crisp morning air as you catch up with friends before a running or rowing event–this just happens to be one of our favorite activities in nature, so we’re biased! The tranquility of natural environments provides a mental reset, helping individuals feel more relaxed and rejuvenated.

2. Enhancing Cognitive Function

Spending time in nature can also boost cognitive performance and creativity. Whether you’re in your 20s or 80s, you’ll find that even a little time in nature helps you perform better on tasks that require sharp memory and attention, while making you more alert and aware of your surroundings. This is simply because green spaces help to reduce mental fatigue, enhance concentration, and even support problem-solving abilities.

3. Supporting Childhood Development

Exposure to green spaces from an early age plays a crucial role in a child’s development. Countless studies suggest that children who grow up with access to parks and natural play areas exhibit better cognitive development, social skills, and emotional regulation. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that children who regularly engage with nature show improved attention spans, reduced symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and even stronger social interactions with those around them.

4. Reducing Symptoms of Depression

One large-scale study conducted in Denmark found that individuals who grew up in greener neighborhoods had a significantly lower risk of developing psychiatric disorders later in life. We think it goes without saying that the presence of trees, plants, and open green areas can easily be linked to lower rates of depression and a greater sense of community belonging, because how can observing the natural beauty that surrounds us not produce such a positive result?

5. Encouraging Physical Activity

Green spaces promote physical activity, which is directly linked to mental health benefits. Whether it’s walking, running, rowing, cycling, or engaging in recreational sports, physical movement in natural settings has been shown to greatly enhance our mental health. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, and having access to green spaces makes it easier to meet this goal.

Why Green Spaces Are Essential for Communities

Fostering Social Connections

Green spaces are hubs for community interaction, fostering social connections that are vital for our mental well-being. Parks, gardens, and community areas provide an opportunity for people to engage with neighbors, come together for a good cause, build relationships, and combat feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Mitigating Urban Stressors

As urbanization continues to rise, many city dwellers face increased noise pollution, air pollution, and overcrowding—all of which contribute to stress and mental health conditions. Green spaces serve as a natural buffer, reducing noise levels, improving air quality, and creating a more peaceful environment.

Providing Equitable Access to Nature

Unfortunately, not all communities have equal access to green spaces. Low-income neighborhoods often lack well-maintained parks or gardens, leading to disparities in mental and physical health. Advocacy for equitable green space development in addition to protecting the ones we have is crucial in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status, can experience the mental health benefits that nature provides.

Protecting and Expanding Green Spaces

Protecting and expanding our green spaces is essential for creating healthier, more sustainable urban environments. City planners and policymakers alike must prioritize the integration of parks and gardens into city landscapes by implementing initiatives such as rooftop gardens, green corridors, and urban forestry projects. These efforts not only enhance biodiversity and air quality but also significantly contribute to mental well-being by providing residents with access to nature in otherwise concrete-dominated areas.

Additionally, local communities and educational programs play a vital role in maintaining and expanding green spaces through active participation, learning and advocacy. Volunteering for park clean-ups, supporting conservation initiatives, and advocating for policies that promote environmental sustainability can make a significant impact. When families take ownership of their local green areas, they help ensure these spaces remain vibrant and accessible for future generations, creating a sense of pride, collective responsibility, and ultimately a more environmentally conscious and responsible future.

Take The Next Step with REACH GREEN

At REACH GREEN, we turn our passion into purpose, with local events that inspire change. From runners to cyclists to walkers, we strongly believe that athletes of all abilities can channel their dedication into preservation of the parks and gardens they call home.

Become a member of the REACH GREEN community to stay connected to our athletic events, sponsorship opportunities, volunteer opportunities, and more – so you can take the first step toward empowering better mental health in your community, both now and in the future. You can also follow us on our Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn pages for more updates, news and information.

Authored by Kelsi McKee