Human-Nature Connection And Mental Health: What Do We Know So Far?

Abstract

The rapid deterioration of both the natural environment and mental health calls attention to investigate the link between their parallel decline. Anticipating the need for an analysis of the same, the present paper attempts to summarise the literature covering human-nature connection and its implications for mental health in terms of research, therapy and intervention. The papers reviewed are organised under three sections. The first section delineates the effects of nature exposure on health and conceptualises the various nature-based therapies and techniques in literature. The second section includes the literature on Nature Deficit Disorder- a term, given by Richard Louv, referring to the collective consequences of disconnect with nature among today’s children. Finally, the third section includes evidences that support rebuilding the connection through outdoor education and the importance of turning to indigenous ways of teaching for a better impact.