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HUMBER AND NORTH YORKSHIRE, UK – Spending time engaged in nature-based activities can lead to significant improvements in mental well-being, reducing anxiety and elevating mood in as little as 12 weeks, according to new research from a UK pilot program.
The study evaluated a ‘green social prescribing’ initiative in Humber and North Yorkshire, one of seven national test sites established under the UK government’s plan to transform mental health services. Green social prescribing involves healthcare professionals referring patients with mild to moderate mental health conditions to community-based nature activities as a complement to traditional medical treatments. This region is the first of the seven pilot sites to publish its findings.
Over 220 participants across Humber and North Yorkshire took part in the programme, engaging in activities such as gardening, care farming, outdoor sports, exercise, mindfulness, and crafts. Researchers from the University of York assessed participants’ mental health using the Office of National Statistics measures for personal well-being and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) before and after their involvement.
Participants engaged in the activities for varying durations, ranging from weekly sessions over one to four weeks, five to eight weeks, or nine to 12 weeks. While improvements were reported across the board, the study found that individuals participating for longer periods (nine to 12 weeks) experienced more significant positive changes in mood and anxiety levels.
Furthermore, the type of activity mattered. Those involved in horticulture and care farming showed greater improvements compared to participants in shorter programmes or those engaged primarily in outdoor crafts, creative sessions, sports, or exercise. Researchers noted that the level of improvement observed was comparable to that seen in short-term Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
“We have known for some time that nature has a positive impact on health and wellbeing,” stated Professor Peter Coventry from the University of York’s Department of Health Sciences. “The fact that activities such as gardening, tending allotments, and care farming had the most impact… demonstrated that it is not just about being passive in nature, but connecting with it in a meaningful way.”
Professor Coventry also highlighted the social benefits: “Anxiety and depression can often be born out of loneliness and feelings of disconnectedness, so it makes sense that taking part in shared activities close to home… can help lift mood and reduce anxiety.”
The positive effects were observed across all participant demographics, including ages ranging from 18 to 85 and across genders. Notably, 65% of participants were from lower socioeconomic groups, indicating the potential for such programs to address health inequalities while simultaneously benefiting local community environments through activities like horticulture.
“This intervention might not work for everyone,” cautioned Trish Darcy, a research associate from the University’s Mental Health and Addiction Research Group, emphasizing the need for exploratory conversations between social prescribers and patients. “For that choice to happen we need more investment to support these community-based activities.”
Dr Hannah Armitt, Clinical Lead for the Humber and North Yorkshire programme, added, “It is important to evidence the potential of green space and nature to ensure clinicians and patients alike can harness the benefits of this wonderful free natural resource.”
The findings, published in the journal Health & Social Care in the Community, add weight to calls for increased investment in green social prescribing. Researchers and programme managers advocate for sustained funding for community organisations delivering these nature-based activities and for the employment of dedicated green social prescribers within the healthcare system.
Anthony Hurd, the Humber and North Yorkshire Green Social Prescribing Programme Manager, stressed the importance of recognizing community groups as “key players in our national health service” that need to be “resourced appropriately,” especially as healthcare increasingly focuses on community-based prevention.
The evaluation was conducted in partnership with The HEY Smile Foundation and NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB), as part of a national project managed by DEFRA and supported by multiple government departments and national bodies.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided by the University of York regarding their research findings published in Health & Social Care in the Community.
