Study looks at connection between nature pictures and mental health

Published: 24 August 2022

Seeing pictures of Exeter’s green spaces and wildlife could have important benefits to mental health, new research is seeking to test.

Students from the University of Exeter are keen to get as many people as possible involved with their Masters Degree research.

The students have launched an online study aimed to investigate whether images of nature have a soothing effect on people and whether pictures of flora and fauna can help improve mental wellbeing.

One of the students, Yu Hang Ho, said: “The results will enhance our understanding of the connection between nature and mental health.

“Depending on the results we may be able to make some recommendations for the public, for example it might be that we recommend that people get out into nature more.

“It has the potential to help those people who have limited access to natural spaces (e.g. people in hospital).”

Last year the City Council launched Wildlife at Home photography competition to lift people’s spirits during the third national ‘lockdown’.

Run in conjunction with Devon Wildlife Trust, the competition proved immensely popular with a 93 entries and dozens of stunning images. People were encouraged to take photographs of wildlife in their gardens, backyards or on the doorsteps.

Exeter has acres and acres of green open spaces and parks, which residents and visitors to the city can enjoy for exercise and relaxation.

Devon Wildlife Trust manage six valley parks on behalf of the City Council. The parks are right on the doorsteps of many homes in the city and support a huge amount of wildlife.

Anyone interested in taking part in the students’ online study is asked to email mscexe2022@outlook.com.  Those taking part will be entered into a draw with the chance of winning one of five £20 and ten £10 Amazon vouchers.