The impact of restorative green environment on mental health of big cities and the role of mental health professionals

Abstract

Purpose of review: To provide an update on insights into the effectiveness of the green environment and forest on the mental health of city dwellers; and the role of mental health professionals in advocating green restorative therapies. Recent findings: The studies reviewed in this paper confirmed the mental health benefits on individuals who engaged in the green environment and forest. Results of studies showed that the participants reported significantly higher positive effects. However, it is difficult to compare studies because of marked differences in methodology and often lack of biological markers. With the recent global concern about climate warming, mental health professionals have a critical role to influence city planners on the importance of the green environment and the forest. In Singapore, the ‘Therapeutic Garden’ project and ‘Therapeutic Rainforest’ program are examples of mental health professionals working with government agencies for a ‘city in nature’.