RESEARCH

Does Nature-Based Social Prescription Improve Mental Health Outcomes? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The meta-analysis found that nature-based social prescriptions significantly improve mental health outcomes for certain interventions like nature-based education and yoga while others, such as CBT and digital therapies, showed limited impact. The study highlights the potential of NBSPs to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression but calls for further research to refine their implementation across different populations.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Mental Health Challenges/Trauma, General Population

Setting or Context: Community Gardens, Natural Areas/Parks/Forest, Homes/Private Residences

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Stress Management

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy

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

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews

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

Access: Free

Print Form

Summary

This research paper examines the effectiveness of nature-based social prescriptions (NBSPs) in improving mental health outcomes through a systematic review and meta-analysis of 28 studies. NBSPs involve prescribing activities like gardening, spending time in green spaces, or engaging with natural environments as complementary or alternative therapies to traditional mental health treatments. The analysis found that interventions such as nature-based education, yoga and meditation, and cognitive behavioral group therapy showed significant positive effects on mental health outcomes, including reductions in stress, anxiety, and depression. However, other interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and digital therapies had limited or no significant impact. The study also highlighted variations in effectiveness based on gender, marital status, and geographic location, with countries like France and Canada showing stronger positive effects from NBSPs.

The findings suggest that NBSPs can be a valuable addition to mental healthcare plans by promoting relaxation, emotional well-being, and social connections through interaction with nature. Despite these promising results, the study identified challenges such as high variability across interventions and populations, emphasizing the need for further research to optimize NBSP designs and applications. The authors recommend integrating NBSPs into healthcare policies to complement traditional therapies and improve accessibility for diverse populations.

Link

Menhas, R., Yang, L., Saqib, ZA. et al. (2024). Does nature-based social prescription improve mental health outcomes? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health., 12, 1228271

Other Recommended Research

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.