- New research from Stanford University indicates that spending as little as 15 minutes daily in nature significantly improves the mental health of city residents.
- The study, published in Nature Cities, found that both stationary and active time in green spaces are beneficial, with stationary time proving more effective at reducing negative mental health outcomes such as depression.
- While all types of urban nature offer benefits, urban forests were identified as most effective for alleviating depression and anxiety.
- Young adults showed even greater improvements, a crucial finding given that most mental health disorders manifest before the age of 25.
- Researchers aim to use these findings to advise urban planners on increasing green spaces to prevent mental health disorders, reduce healthcare costs, and provide additional environmental benefits.
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