Interacting with nature boosts mental health, particularly for lower-income individuals, suggests study

A study conducted by scientists from the University of Vienna involved a cohort of 2,300 Austrian residents. The results indicated that regular interaction with nature positively influences mental health. This effect was especially significant among people with a lower income.

The experts from the University of Vienna evaluated how interaction with the natural world affects the mental well-being of Austrians. The study suggested that spending time amidst nature helps to alleviate stress, bolster the immune system - essential for brain health, enhance cognition, improve sleep quality, and increase overall life satisfaction.

However, these benefits don't affect everyone equally. The research found that typically, people with lower incomes have inferior mental health compared to wealthier individuals. Nonetheless, it's these less affluent people for whom contact with nature proves most beneficial.

Lower-income participants who regularly spent time in green spaces reportedly felt nearly as good as the most affluent study participants. This finding was consistent amongst all Austrian residents, including those residing in urbanised areas of Vienna.

The study's findings suggest that the well-being benefits derived from visiting nature at least once a week yearly equate to a £850 increase in annual income - says Leonie Fian, the study's lead author.

However, merely residing near green spaces or bodies of water doesn't suffice. An active engagement with these natural spaces is required.

For those with lower incomes, information about appealing local natural recreational areas and accessible public transport is crucial. Additionally, convenient weekend transport should also be arranged - adds Arne Arnberger, the study's co-author published in the journal "Health & Place". Researchers, therefore, emphasize the importance of actively interacting with nature, not just residing near it.