Gregory N. Bratman, C. Anderson, M. Berman
Jul 1, 2019
Citations
22
Influential Citations
809
Citations
Quality indicators
Journal
Science Advances
Abstract
We provide consensus on the benefits of nature experience for mental health, and a model for integrating them into urban design. A growing body of empirical evidence is revealing the value of nature experience for mental health. With rapid urbanization and declines in human contact with nature globally, crucial decisions must be made about how to preserve and enhance opportunities for nature experience. Here, we first provide points of consensus across the natural, social, and health sciences on the impacts of nature experience on cognitive functioning, emotional well-being, and other dimensions of mental health. We then show how ecosystem service assessments can be expanded to include mental health, and provide a heuristic, conceptual model for doing so.