30 Years of Research Reveals Surprising 10-Minute Mental Health Boost

A meta-analysis of existing research shows exposure to nature benefits those with diagnosed mental illness.

A study reveals that even 10 minutes in nature benefits adults with mental illness. Reviewing 30 years of research, it shows positive effects from various nature exposures, including urban parks and wilderness. Activities like camping and gardening had notable benefits. The study highlights the need to preserve green spaces for mental health.

Nature’s Role in Mental Health
According to a new study published in the peer-reviewed journal Ecopsychology, spending time in nature—even as little as 10 minutes—can yield short-term benefits for adults with mental illness. The new meta-analysis examined 30 years of published research on the social, mental, and physical health effects of exposure to nature, including urban nature.