Urban natur og psykisk helse

Abstract

This report is a master’s thesis aiming to investigate the effects of urban green spaces on stress and mental health, as well as how urban green spaces can be designed to make the area restorative. To investigate this, the following research questions were formulated: How can urban nature be designed to improve mental health and reduce stress? Which effects can urban nature have on mental health and stress? Which design principles can be stablished based on existing research on urban nature, mental health and stress? To answer this, a literature review was conducted. Existing research indicates that staying and walking in urban nature can reduce stress and improve mental health. Urban nature can potentially help you recover more quickly after a stressful experience. Staying in urban nature can be a break from everyday life where you can be yourself, relax, meet friends and family, observe nature, and get a break from pondering. Mental health and stress are complex topics, and several factors can play a role in what has an impact. It is not claimed that urban nature is a cure for either mental illness or stress, but that it can potentially be a resource for getting a break in everyday life, which can positively affect mental health and stress. The following design principles were derived from existing research: many trees, many bushes, plants, flowers, biodiversity and wildlife, trails, wild, varied social potential, peace and tranquility, water elements, bonfire facilities, play equipment, not exercise equipment, safe, uneven surfaces, view, openness and cultural.