Results from an 18 country cross-sectional study examining experiences of nature for people with common mental health disorders.

ABSTRACT: Exposure to natural environments is associated with a lower risk of common mental health disorders (CMDs), such as depression and anxiety, but we know little about nature-related motivations, practices and experiences of those already experiencing CMDs. We used data from an 18-country survey to explore these issues (n = 18,838), taking self-reported doctor-prescribed medication for depression and/or anxiety as an indicator of a CMD (n = 2698, 14%). Intrinsic motivation for visiting nature was high for all, though slightly lower for those with CMDs. Most individuals with a CMD reported visiting nature ≥ once a week. Although perceived social pressure to visit nature was associated with higher visit likelihood, it was also associated with lower intrinsic motivation, lower visit happiness and

SUBMITTER: Tester-Jones M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7648621 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature