University of Exeter Launches Nature Program to Improve Mood and Reduce Stress

What's Happening?

A new self-guided program called Roots and Shoots, developed by researchers at the University of Exeter, aims to improve mood and reduce stress through everyday contact with nature. The program is designed for adults with low wellbeing and involves at-home reflections paired with brief outdoor activities. Led by Dr. Matt Owens and Clinical Psychologist Dr. Hannah L. I. Bunce, the initiative is part of the ROWAN nature and mental health research group. The program includes a printed guidebook with sections that unfold over four weeks, introducing participants to the science of nature and wellbeing. Activities include tracking time in nature, mood, and values-based actions, supported by online meditations and breathing exercises.

Why It's Important?

The Roots and Shoots program addresses the growing need for accessible mental health interventions, especially as traditional services face challenges such as stigma and logistical barriers. By offering a low-cost, scalable option, the program could alleviate pressure on mental health services and provide immediate support to individuals. The economic impact of mental health issues is significant, with costs estimated at 118 billion pounds per year in the UK. This program offers a potential solution by promoting mental health through nature-based interventions, which have been shown to improve outcomes like mood and stress biology.

What's Next?

Following the pilot study, the next step involves conducting a larger trial to test the program's durability and effectiveness across different demographics. Researchers aim to explore the mechanisms behind the program's success and identify which components are most beneficial for participants. The study's findings could lead to broader implementation of nature-based interventions in mental health care, potentially integrating them into stepped care models as preventive measures or adjuncts to therapy.

Beyond the Headlines

The program highlights the importance of nature in mental health care, suggesting that urban environments can still offer sufficient natural contact through elements like street trees and pocket parks. This approach challenges the notion that nature therapy requires extensive time or travel, making it accessible to a wider audience. The initiative also underscores the potential for self-help tools to empower individuals in managing their mental health, fostering a proactive approach to wellbeing.