Prof Andrea Mechelli: 'People Who Live Near Green Space are Less Likely to Struggle with Mental Health Issues'


*Introduction*

Clinical psychologist and neuroscientist Prof. Andrea Mechelli, a professor of early intervention in mental health at King's College London, led a study on the Urban Mind project. The study, which started in 2018, looks at how urban environments affect mental wellbeing globally. The study's findings suggest that people who live near green spaces are less likely to struggle with mental health issues.


*Mental Health Benefits of Green Spaces*

Several studies have shown that people who live near parks, canals, rivers, or any green space are less likely to struggle with mental health issues. The risk of developing depression is about 20% lower in people who live near or spend a significant amount of time near green spaces. Even small pockets of green spaces can lead to measurable improvements in mental wellbeing that last over time.


*Urban Mind Project Findings*

The Urban Mind project has found that when people can see trees, there is an increase in their mental wellbeing, and this lasts at least eight hours. Similar results were found for birdsong. Active participation, such as planting or taking care of trees, can also be very powerful in improving mental health.


*Importance of Green Spaces*

Green spaces are all around us, even in dense urban environments. We can access trees and hear birdsong. Small can still be impactful. Reframing nature as something that is all around us can help us appreciate the importance of green spaces in our mental wellbeing.


*Conclusion*

Prof. Andrea Mechelli's study on the Urban Mind project highlights the importance of green spaces in our mental wellbeing. The study's findings suggest that people who live near green spaces are less likely to struggle with mental health issues. Even small pockets of green spaces can lead to measurable improvements in mental wellbeing that last over time. Therefore, it is essential to appreciate and take care of the green spaces around us.