Story perspectives

Greener Spaces Slash Mental Health Hospitalizations by 7%

11/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The BMJ study analyzes 11.4 million psychiatric admissions across seven countries and finds that greenness lowers mental-health hospitalizations by 7%.
The reductions are strongest for substance use (9%), psychotic disorders (7%), and dementia (6%).
Brazil, Chile, and Thailand show consistent benefits, while Australia and Canada report modest increases.
Expanding green spaces could prevent about 7,712 admissions annually, and researchers should assess space quality and accessibility.

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Story summary

The BMJ study analyzes 11.4 million psychiatric admissions across seven countries and finds that greenness lowers mental-health hospitalizations by 7%.
The reductions are strongest for substance use (9%), psychotic disorders (7%), and dementia (6%).
Brazil, Chile, and Thailand show consistent benefits, while Australia and Canada report modest increases.
Expanding green spaces could prevent about 7,712 admissions annually, and researchers should assess space quality and accessibility.