RESEARCH

Campus Community Gardens and Student Health: A Case Study of a Campus Garden and Student Well-Being

This study determined that a strong connection to nature and good general health significantly contribute to the overall well-being of student garden volunteers. The findings suggest that universities should prioritize campus green spaces to support student wellness, especially in urban environments.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Chronic/Acute Health Conditions

Setting or Context: Healthcare Centre

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Greater Sense of Purpose

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This study explored how cancer patients experience nature and if nature-based care could help them. Researchers interviewed 20 cancer patients about their views on nature and its role in their lives. They found that nature helped patients in a few key ways. First, it acted as a support system that gave them comfort and helped them connect with things they valued. Second, nature allowed patients to explore their feelings about cancer, both by helping them escape from the stress of their illness and by giving them a new way to think about their situation. Overall, the study suggests that nature helps cancer patients cope by allowing them to return to a sense of normalcy during a difficult time.

The researchers concluded that nature provides a safe and comforting space where patients can deal with the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. By helping patients feel more normal, nature can improve their well-being and help them cope with their illness. The study also highlights the need for more research on how nature-based care can be used in cancer treatment settings.

Link

Baur, J. (2020). Campus community gardens and student health: A case study of a campus garden and student well-being. J Am Coll Healt., 5, 1-8.

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