Links between natural environments and mental health: evidence briefing (EIN018)

This briefing note is part of a series that summarises evidence of the relationships between the natural environment and a range of outcomes. This briefing focuses on links between natural environments and mental health. The notes are aimed at: policy makers, practitioners, practice enablers (including Natural England, Natural Resources Wales etc.), local decision makers, and the wider research community. They highlight some of the implications for future policy, service delivery and research. It is intended they will inform practitioner planning, targeting and rationales, but not the identification of solutions or design of interventions. Barriers to access or use are not considered in these notes. The other briefings in the series published so far cover physical activity, obesity, physiological health, connection with nature, and learning. The notes consider evidence of relevance to the UK and outcomes for both adults and children. Please see EIN016 for methodology, glossary and evaluation resources.