Nature-Based Social Prescribing in Urban Settings to Improve Social Connectedness and Mental Well-being: a Review

AbstractPurpose of ReviewRecent reports of a “loneliness epidemic” in the USA are growing along with a robust evidence base that suggests that loneliness and social isolation can compromise physical and psychological health. Screening for social isolation among at-risk populations and referring them to nature-based community services, reso urces, and activities through a social prescribing (SP) program may provide a way to connect vulnerable populations with the broader community and increase their sense of connectedness and belonging. In this review, we explore opportunities for social prescribing to be used as a tool to address conn ectedness through nature-based interventions.Recent FindingsSocial prescribing can include a variety of activities linked with voluntary and community sector organizations (e.g., walking and park prescriptions, community gardening, farmers ’ market vouchers). These activities can promote nature contact, strengthen social structures, and improve longer term mental and physical health by activating intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental processes. The prescriptions are appropriate for reaching a range of high-risk populations including moms who are minors who are minors, recent immigrants, older adults, economically and linguistically isolated populations, and unlikely users of nature and outdoor spaces.SummaryMore research is needed to understand the impact of SPs on high-risk populations and the supports needed to allow them to fe...
Source: Current Environmental Health Reports - Category: Environmental Health Source Type: research