Nature\u27s effect on mental health

The United States has an overwhelming number of people suffering from mental illness, especially anxiety and depression. These disorders can be debilitating in many areas of the person’s life. Not even half of those diagnosed with these conditions are treated effectively and costs are expected to rise significantly in the coming years. One population that is often overlooked that suffers from these conditions is health professionals themselves. Physicians and nurses have high rates of depression and anxiety due to the stress from their occupation. In order for more patients and providers to be treated and for the health care system to save money, simple, inexpensive, and proactive interventions must be utiliized to prevent the development of these disorders. Nature-assisted therapy, which involves working with plants and natural areas as a form of rehabilitation, has been shown to have positive emotional, cognitive, and physical outcomes. Based on information from numerous studies, current and future health professionals and the general public should utilize this as a resource for a non-pharmological treatment for mental disorders