GREEN SPACES AND THE LINK TO MENTAL HEALTH
Green spaces where people can connect with nature offer a natural solution to the work/life balance, says Sol Russell, Specification Team Leader at Kinley.
For people living in major urban cities, the hustle and bustle of daily life, combined with the difficulties of finding a suitable work/life balance, can sometimes have adverse effects on their mental health and wellbeing. Studies from Kings College London reveal the risk of depression, characterised by low mood and feelings of helplessness, is around 20% higher in those living in urbanised areas compared to those residing outside the city. The same research indicated the risk of developing psychosis is up to 77% higher in urban residents than those living in rural areas.
Aside from the high noise levels and significant air pollution, the limited number of green spaces found in large cities and urbanised areas can often be an attributing factor in reduced mental health and wellbeing. It’s increasingly critical for urban designers and property developers to implement parks, gardens and other green spaces into their designs to combat the feelings of loneliness and stress often seen by those living and working in major cities across the UK.
Here are some of the primary psychological and physical benefits of green spaces:
• Reduced stress levels: Spending time around nature can lower the physical indicators of stress, such as pulse rates and blood pressure, while giving the brain time to rest. Research from the Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust revealed spending at least two hours a week in nature can boost self-esteem, enhance mood and reduce anxiety.
• Social inclusion: For urban communities, having a natural space in which to congregate and take part in local events can substantially improve mental wellbeing. This is especially important given those living in major cities are often more likely to report feeling lonely or isolated from others. Green spaces, such as parks and gardens, typically act as free, accessible and inclusive public areas. Of course, no park or garden would be complete without benches, tables and planters, such as Kinley’s Kinley+ range.
• Carbon sequestration: Green space abundant with plants, shrubs and trees enables the process of carbon sequestration – a vital method of absorbing carbon emissions through photosynthesis and storing it in organic matter. www.kinley.co.uk