RESEARCH

Assessment of the Psychopathological Effects of a Horticultural Therapy Program in Patients with Schizophrenia

This paper examines the impact of horticultural therapy involving plant cultivation on the psychopathological symptoms of patients with schizophrenia. The study suggests horticultural therapy can improve these symptoms, highlighting the need for future research on long-term effects.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Mental Health Challenges/Trauma

Setting or Context: Farms, Natural Areas/Parks/Forest

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Improved Cognitive Function, Improved Physical Health, Faster Recovery Times, Community Building

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

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Paid

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Summary

This paper looks at how horticultural therapy, which involves working with plants, affects people with schizophrenia. The study involved patients participating in ten sessions of horticultural activities like planting and tending to various crops. Researchers wanted to see if these activities could help improve the mental health symptoms often associated with schizophrenia.

The study found that the patients who participated in horticultural therapy showed notable improvements in their symptoms. These improvements were measured using standard scales that assess both the positive (like hallucinations) and negative (like emotional flatness) symptoms of schizophrenia. The group that didn’t participate in horticultural therapy didn’t show the same improvements. The researchers concluded that horticultural therapy could be a helpful way to improve the well-being of individuals with schizophrenia

Link

Oh, Y.A., Park, SA., & Ahn, BE. (2018). Assessment of the psychopathological effects of a horticultural therapy program in patients with schizophrenia. Complement Ther Med., 36, 54-58.

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