Could the key to alleviating anxiety be as simple as spending more time outdoors? Researchers at the University of Waterloo suggest it might be.
They have released new findings that link urban natural environments to significant improvements in youth mental health. The study, part of the university’s Future Cities Initiative, reveals how simple exposure to natural settings, such as parks and lakes, can reduce stress and boost well-being among young people.
The Science of Forest Bathing
Led by Leia Minaker, an associate professor in the School of Planning, the research demonstrates quantifiable benefits of “forest bathing,” a practice where individuals spend quiet time in natural surroundings, focusing on their observations and deep breathing. According to the findings, just a few minutes near an urban lake can decrease anxiety levels in youth by nine percent. Conversely, the same amount of time spent in busy city centers can increase anxiety by thirteen percent.
These results are timely, as urbanization continues to accelerate, posing potential risks to mental health, particularly among vulnerable populations like adolescents. Depression and anxiety rank as leading causes of illness in this age group, making the study’s insights particularly relevant for urban planners and policy makers.
Designing Cities for Emotional Well-being
The research also suggests that incorporating natural motifs and elements into urban design could be a strategic approach to enhance the mental health of city dwellers. This includes the integration of natural sights and landscape elements in urban settings, which have been shown to have a unique impact on adolescents, differing from adults who might interact with these spaces for physical activities like walking or running.
Minaker emphasizes the importance of including youth in urban planning decisions. “Teens are frequently excluded from any kind of decision about the cities they live in,” she said. The study argues that engaging young people in these discussions is not only critical for their immediate mental health but could also influence their long-term health outcomes.
As part of its ongoing efforts, the Future Cities Initiative plans to further explore the relationship between urban living and mental health, with upcoming studies aimed at assessing the impacts of living in high-rise buildings among children—a subject that remains under-researched in North America.
This research offers a clear directive for city builders and health providers: to advocate for and implement design features that foster natural environments within urban landscapes, potentially offsetting some of the stressors associated with city living.
Source: University of Waterloo. “Teens benefit from ‘forest bathing’ — even in cities.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 27 February 2024.
