Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health Greener Cities Linked to Better Mental Health Outcomes
Dec 13, 2025
Living in greener neighborhoods is linked to fewer hospitalizations for mental health issues like depression and anxiety. A study found that even a small increase in greenery can reduce psychiatric admissions significantly, especially in urban areas with parks. The ideal environment for mental well-being is a balance of about 50% greenery. Spending time outdoors can lower stress and boost focus. Practical tips include walking in green spaces and incorporating houseplants for improved concentration. A challenge encourages daily nature exposure to enhance mood.
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Greenness Cuts Psychiatric Hospitalizations
- A global analysis of 11.4 million psychiatric admissions found small increases in greenness cut hospitalizations by about 7% overall.
- Urban areas showed the strongest effect, with roughly 13% fewer psychiatric admissions when local vegetation increased.
Biggest Drops In Severe Disorders
- The largest declines were in substance-related and psychotic disorders, with roughly 9% and 7% fewer admissions respectively.
- Dementia and anxiety admissions also fell, by about 6% and 3% respectively as greenness increased.
Why Green Improves Mental Health
- Green spaces reduce exposure to air pollution, heat, and noise, all of which disrupt brain chemistry and hormones.
- They also encourage walking, social connection, and calming visual input that stabilize mood.