In our current environment where nature is highly neglected, various studies have been conducted, such as the action COST E39 focusing on forests, human health and well-being. From 2004 to 2009, more than 160 scientists coming from 24 European countries and participants from Asia, Australia, Canada, and America have worked together on different aspects of this theme.
It has been scientifically proven that the greater the exposure to sunlight, UV rays and natural light is, the greater the expression and production of beta-endorphin is. This endogenous opioid is not only known for improving the well-being, but can also have an analgesic and relaxing effect. It has also been found that there are strong connections between the contact one has with nature and mental health conditions. There indeed is a tight relation between a lack of daylight and depression; between a vitamin D deficiency and obesity. A daily exposition to green spaces diminishes the risk of developing a mental illness, as well as the exposition to the sun leads to a higher level of vitamin D, which is particularly important for the DNA reparation, and to reduce any risk for young children of developing a pathological auto-immune disease.
Based on the theory of Louv and the concept of "Nature-deficit disorder," a recent study was led to evaluate the effects of a four-week immersion in nature at a residential camp for young adults. In this context, relevant scientific data highlight the importance of exposing children to nature and its influence on their mental health. Published in 2021, this study was conducted in ten different countries, including five European, and was based on six categories of health outcomes: academic achievement, prevalence of physician-diagnosed disorders, emotional and behavioral functioning, well-being, social functioning, and cognitive skills. As a result, with a precision rate of over 80%, positive associations between natural environments and childhood mental health and development were found, with only 13% of cases showing an opposite conclusion.
Likewise, another similar recent study published in 2023 focusing on the same theme, emphasizes that "Different aspects of nature connection were correlated with well-being. Furthermore, a wide range of well-being effects of nature connection was found in quantitative studies, covering psychological, social, and physical well-being effects."
Thus, the scientific community recognizes that data can be further explored, and new studies may shed light on many other significant aspects of the impact of nature on mental health. Therefore, while a skeptical stance is understandable, we should not overlook the undeniable benefits of spending time in nature and enjoying the mountain ambiance.
By Marianthi Dimou et Noémie Fraschilla
To go further on our March file dedicated to the mountain, you can read our International Relations and Culture sections’ articles on our blog.
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