University Presentation Showcase: Graduate Poster Gallery
Preview
Creation Date
Spring 2021
Major
Recreation and Park Administration
Department
Recreation and Park Administration
Degree
Graduate
Mentor
Brian Clark, Ed.D.
Mentor Department
Recreation and Park Administration
Abstract
The coronavirus pandemic is causing a mental health crisis and a powerful tool to combat this crisis is the great outdoors. The purpose of this study is to show how nature exposure can combat the negative mental health impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. The methodology used to support this study is based on a review of the available literature. The coronavirus has been shown to have many negative impacts on mental health including increased anxiety, depression, and psychologic distress. In some communities, the prevalence of anxiety during the pandemic has been estimated to be over three times the normal value and the prevalence of depression has doubled. Nature exposure has been shown to be beneficial to mental health. There is evidence that it can decrease stress, insomnia, depression, and mental distress and increase happiness and well-being. There is evidence that some communities are increasing time spent in nature during the pandemic. Nature is an excellent tool to use to decrease the negative impacts of the novel coronavirus and it is right outside your door.
