RESEARCH

Nature for Mental Health and Social Inclusion

This article reviews the potential of horticulture and gardening for mental health recovery and community integration, highlighting the benefits of social and therapeutic horticulture programs.

Program Types: Social, Therapeutic

Population Groups: Mental Health Challenges/Trauma

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Mental Health, Improved Physical Health, Increased Social Engagement & Skills

Allied Profession Intersections: Social Work

Type of Activity: Edible Plant Gardening, Growing Plants from Seed, Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening, Plant Propagation

Evidence Type: Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health

Access: Free

Summary

This article explores the potential of horticulture and gardening for recovery and community integration for individuals with serious mental illnesses. The author conducted a literature review, including three standardized literature searches and supplemental sources, to assess the existing evidence. The review examined historical attitudes toward nature in psychiatric treatment, the social and therapeutic benefits of nature-related activities, and the impact of such programs on social inclusion and destigmatization of mental illness.

The author found that nature-oriented programs, such as social and therapeutic horticulture, can enhance participants’ quality of life by providing intellectual, social, emotional, and physical benefits. Programs involve structured group activities that incorporate participant action, facilitate daily routines, and promote social opportunities and a work ethic. The author concludes that mental health services should incorporate nature-related programming to improve health and well-being, foster constructive relationships, and support social inclusion and destigmatization.

Link

Bishop, B. P. (2012). Nature for Mental Health and Social Inclusion. Disability Studies Quarterly, 33(1).

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RESEARCH

Nature for Mental Health and Social Inclusion

Summary

Link

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