Living close to well maintained forest areas may reduce the need for antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications, according to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Edinburgh and the University of Glasgow.
The findings, published in the medical journal The Lancet Planetary Health, showed that city dwellers living within a 10 minute walk of maintained woodland were 10 percent less likely to be prescribed antidepressants. They were also 6 percent less likely to receive prescriptions for anti-anxiety drugs compared with residents living further away.
The scientific team analyzed data from more than 129,000 residents across Scotland tracked over a five year period. When assessing prescription rates, the researchers controlled for key health variables including age, sex, income levels, and other demographic factors that influence mental well being.
A corresponding effect was identified among participants who relocated during the five year window. Individuals who moved closer to maintained forest zones experienced a reduced need for psychiatric medications after their move took place.
Green spaces in urban planning
Scientists noted that relatively modest investments in forest maintenance, including the creation of walking paths, directional signage, and shared public spaces, can deliver significant mental health benefits across a population.
Based on these findings, the authors suggested that expanding accessible woodland areas should be incorporated into public health programs, with a particular focus on densely populated urban environments.
Scotland is a constituent country of the United Kingdom where major population centers such as Edinburgh and Glasgow sit alongside natural woodland regions. The University of Edinburgh and the University of Glasgow are among the nation's foremost research institutions. The Lancet Planetary Health is an open access peer reviewed journal that publishes research on how environmental factors affect human health.
Related research on depression
The study reflects broader efforts by health researchers to identify non-pharmacological methods for alleviating mood disorders. Earlier research cited in the report found that higher levels of vitamin B6 are associated with a reduction in the severity of depressive symptoms.
