Nature-based activities to support mental ill health
This study explores if activities in nature, such as gardening or conservation, can help people dealing with mild to moderate depression or anxiety. We already know that spending time in nature can be good for our health, but this research wants to prove it more scientifically. This 'pilot' study will check if our plans for a bigger trial are practical and acceptable. We'll ask people to take part in group nature activities for 6 weeks or be in a comparison group. We'll compare changes in their mental health, well-being, and loneliness between the groups. Afterwards, the comparison group will also get the chance to join the activities. The goal is to create a solid plan for a future, larger study.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is looking into whether spending time doing activities in nature, like gardening or conservation, can help people who are feeling low or anxious. Many people believe that being outdoors and active can improve mental health, and this research aims to find scientific evidence to support that idea.
Think of this as a trial run for a much bigger study. Before we can do a large, expensive research project, we need to make sure our plan works well. This 'pilot' study will help us figure out if we can find enough participants, if our questions are clear, and if the whole process is practical. We'll compare a group of people taking part in these nature activities with a group who don't at first, to see if there are any differences in how they feel. We also want to hear from those taking part about their experiences.
The results of this pilot study will help us design a future, larger study. That bigger study would then look more deeply into whether nature-based activities are truly effective and good value for money to help people with mental health challenges. This could help doctors and health services understand if these kinds of activities should be offered more widely.
Key takeaways
- This study explores if outdoor, nature activities help with mild to moderate depression and anxiety.
- It's a 'pilot' study to check if a larger research project would work well.
- Participants will either join 6 weeks of nature activities or be in a comparison group.
- Both groups will fill out questionnaires about their well-being.
- The comparison group will also get to do the nature activities later.
- The study aims to create a plan for future research into nature-based therapies.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be an adult aged 18 or older. You should be experiencing mild to moderate depression or anxiety. This means you might be feeling down or worried, but not severely so. You also need to live close enough to the activity locations to be able to get there easily.
It's important that you can understand written and spoken English well, as all instructions for the activities, including safety information, will be in English. You can still take part if you are already receiving other treatments for your depression or anxiety.
However, some people won't be able to join. This includes anyone with severe depression or anxiety, people who are actively considering harming themselves, or those with serious physical problems that would stop them from doing typical outdoor activities like walking or gardening, even if they are adjusted for different abilities.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you experience mild to moderate depression or anxiety?
- Can you travel to the activity locations?
- Can you understand spoken and written English well?
- Are you able to take part in gentle outdoor activities?
- Are you NOT experiencing severe depression or anxiety, or feeling suicidal?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to join this study, you might hear about it through your GP, local community groups, social media, or even word of mouth. Once you're interested, you'll get information to read and discuss with the researchers. If you agree to take part, you'll fill in some forms about your mental health, how you feel, how lonely you are, and your general health.
You'll then be randomly placed into one of two groups. One group will take part in nature activities for one 3-hour session each week for 6 weeks. The other group will be a comparison group. After the 6 weeks, everyone will fill in the same forms again, and then once more 6 weeks after that. Once all the information is collected, the comparison group will also get the chance to join the nature activities. Some participants will also be invited to group discussions to share their experiences.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- University of ExeterApproximateExeter, England
- Royal Devon and Exeter HospitalCity onlyExeter, England
Common questions
What kind of nature activities will I do?
Activities could include things like gardening, walking in nature, or helping with conservation projects.
How long will the activities last each week?
If you're in the activity group, you'll have one 3-hour session per week for 6 weeks.
What if I'm already seeing a doctor or therapist for my mental health?
You can still participate in the study even if you are already receiving other treatments for your depression or anxiety.
Where is this study taking place?
The study is based at the University of Exeter in the UK.
Who is paying for this research?
The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK is funding this study.
How to find out more
Ruth Garside
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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