Nature could be an effective self-help tool for improving mental health - University of Exeter

Engaging with nature could be an effective measure for those with low wellbeing to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

A new pilot study from the University of Exeter, published in Behavioral Sciences, found that a self-guided, four-week nature-based programme called Roots and Shoots could help adults boost their mood, enhance mindfulness, and reconnect with the natural environment.

Mental health challenges like depression and anxiety affect millions of people worldwide, causing not only personal distress but significant economic strain – with an estimated cost of £118 billion per year in the UK alone. Traditional mental health services are often under pressure and many who need support do not receive it due to lack of resources. In addition, the stigma surrounding mental health can be a barrier to seeking help, and many people prefer self-reliance.

Dr Matt Owens, from the University of Exeter and co-founder of the nature and mental health research group ROWAN, led the study and said: “We know that spending more time in nature and connecting with it can be beneficial for mental wellbeing but unfortunately we spend more and more time indoors, as urbanisation increases and modern lifestyles tend towards screentime. We have developed a self-help package that uses principles from both clinical psychology and nature research to empower individuals to spend more time in nature, rediscover their relationship with natural environments and improve their wellbeing.”

The Roots and Shoots programme was tested in a pilot study involving 47 adults, who were randomly assigned to either use the nature-based guidebook immediately or join a waiting list. Participants in the waiting list initially did not use the guidebook but did complete the same questionnaires as those using the guidebook. In this way, researchers were able to compare the nature guidebook group with the waiting list group.