"Why diversity in nature could be the key to mental wellbeing" by Professor Andrea Mechelli, published in The Conversation.

Biodiverse nature offers more stimulation for the senses, which may improve concentration, reduce mental fatigue and restore cognitive resources – such as memory and attention span. Also, people living in or near a natural space tend to spend more time exercising or socialising outdoors, both of which promote the release of endorphins and other mood-boosting hormones.

Diverse natural environments also play essential roles in reducing pollutants and moderating temperatures. This helps protect against chronic physical conditions such as allergies and asthma, while decreasing stress levels and enhancing mental wellbeing.

The science, then, is clear: biodiversity is critical not only for the health of our planet but also for human mental health. Our research shows biodiversity must be considered part of the vital infrastructure of our cities. You can read the full article here.

Andrea Mechelli is a Professor of Early Intervention in Mental Health, King's College London.

Published in Scientific Reports and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and Wellcome, this citizen science study used the smartphone application Urban Mind to collect real-time reports on mental wellbeing and natural diversity from nearly 2000 participants. Data were collected using the Urban Mind app, developed by King’s College London, landscape architects J&L Gibbons and arts foundation Nomad Projects.

The Urban Mind project is funded by a Wellcome Climate Impacts Award, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre and the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration South London.