RESEARCH

Challenges and Approaches to Green Social Prescribing During and in the Aftermath of COVID-19: A Qualitative Study

This study found that green social prescribing, which involves recommending nature-based activities for health benefits, faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased client anxieties and practical barriers like mobility issues. Despite these challenges, stakeholders recognized the potential of green social prescribing to alleviate mental health impacts of the pandemic, but noted that addressing health inequalities and improving accessibility for disadvantaged groups remains a critical task.

Program Types: Therapeutic, Social

Population Groups: Mental Health Challenges/Trauma, General Population

Setting or Context: Community Gardens, Urban vs. Rural Settings, Natural Areas/Parks/Forest

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Greater Sense of Purpose, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Decreased Need for Pain Medication

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy, Social Work, Landscape Design

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews, Qualitative Research, Anecdotal Evidence/Testimonials

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This study explores how “green social prescribing” was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Green social prescribing involves healthcare professionals recommending activities in nature, such as walking or gardening, to improve mental and physical health. The researchers conducted interviews with various stakeholders, including doctors and social workers, in Scotland and North East England. They found that while many people believe nature-based activities are beneficial, there were significant challenges during the pandemic, such as restricted access to green spaces and increased anxiety among clients.

The study highlighted several barriers to green social prescribing, including psychological issues like anxiety and practical problems like mobility and transport limitations. Despite these challenges, stakeholders saw potential in initiatives like parkrun, which combines physical activity with social interaction. However, they noted that these programs often favor more affluent and younger populations, leaving gaps in accessibility for disadvantaged groups. The study emphasizes the need for policymakers to address these inequalities when promoting green social prescribing as a tool for improving health outcomes.

Link

Fixsen, A., & Barrett, S. (2022). Challenges and approaches to green social prescribing during and in the aftermath of COVID-19: A qualitative study. Front Psychol., 13, 861107.

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