December 13, 2025

Greener Cities Linked to Better Mental Health Outcomes

7 minutes

Living in greener neighborhoods is linked to significantly fewer hospitalizations for mental illness, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, and dementia
A global analysis of 11.4 million cases found that just a small increase in vegetation density reduced mental health hospital admissions by 7%
Urban residents experienced the strongest benefits — cities with more parks and tree-lined streets saw 13% fewer psychiatric hospitalizations
Researchers discovered that the ideal balance for mental well-being is when about half your surroundings are green; both too little and too much vegetation reduce benefits
Spending at least 30 minutes a day in moderate greenery, walking outdoors, or adding plants to your home helps lower stress hormones, boost focus, and improve emotional resilience

...more

By Dr. Mercola

4.6

14871,487 ratings

December 13, 2025

7 minutes

Living in greener neighborhoods is linked to significantly fewer hospitalizations for mental illness, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, and dementia
A global analysis of 11.4 million cases found that just a small increase in vegetation density reduced mental health hospital admissions by 7%
Urban residents experienced the strongest benefits — cities with more parks and tree-lined streets saw 13% fewer psychiatric hospitalizations
Researchers discovered that the ideal balance for mental well-being is when about half your surroundings are green; both too little and too much vegetation reduce benefits
Spending at least 30 minutes a day in moderate greenery, walking outdoors, or adding plants to your home helps lower stress hormones, boost focus, and improve emotional resilience

...more