Research led by the University of Sheffield, in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University, University of Exeter and University of Plymouth, shows Green Social Prescribing – supporting people to engage in nature-based activities – is an effective way of supporting people to improve their mental health

More than 8,300 people with mental health needs took part in nature-based activities across England during the £5.77 million cross-governmental funded project

The results showed that after taking part in the schemes, people’s feelings of happiness and of life being worthwhile jumped to near national averages, while levels of anxiety fell significantly. The project also found the cost of a green prescription was about £500, making it cost-effective compared with other treatments. Cognitive behavioural therapy costs about £1,000 for 10 sessions.

Covered in The Guardian ‘Better than medication’: prescribing nature works, project shows