Research Highlights Health Benefits of Coastal Living

The Connection Between Mental Health and Natural Environments

Recent studies have intensified the focus on mental health in Western societies. According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), “in any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians experience a mental illness or addiction problem.” As research evolves, it reveals both risk factors for mental health issues and potential strategies for improvement.

University of Exeter Study on Blue Spaces

A team from the University of Exeter investigated the relationship between mental health and exposure to blue spaces, specifically aquatic environments. They also examined how household income might influence this relationship. Previous studies primarily focused on green spaces, leaving a gap in understanding the benefits of blue spaces.

Study Methodology and Findings

Published in *Health & Place*, the study utilized self-reported mental health data from participants aged 16 and older who completed the Health Survey of England (HSE). The researchers employed two distinct measurement outcomes to identify common mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression. They specifically targeted urban residents, as previous research indicated varying rates of mental health disorders based on urban-rural classification. Blue space exposure was measured by proximity to the coast.

The findings revealed that individuals living within 0-1 km of the English coast had a lower risk of common mental disorders compared to those residing more than 50 km away. When analyzing the data by household income, the researchers found that the beneficial relationship between coastal proximity and mental health was significant only among individuals with the lowest incomes, particularly for those living within 5 km of the coast.

Limitations and Future Research Directions

It is crucial to emphasize that this study did not establish a causal link between residing by the sea and improved mental health; rather, it identified an association between coastal proximity and reduced risk of common mental disorders. Future research should explore factors contributing to this effect, such as reduced stress levels or increased physical activity opportunities. Additionally, the study did not consider the quality of coastal areas or their accessibility, both of which could influence visits to these blue spaces and their potential impact on mental health.

Implications and Need for Further Research

The data suggests that living near the sea may offer health advantages, particularly for low-income communities in England. However, further cross-cultural research is necessary to validate this relationship globally. The findings contribute to the expanding evidence base linking blue spaces to improved health, which, as the researchers noted, could inform relevant environmental, planning, and public health policies.

References

CAMH. (2019). Mental Illness and Addiction: Facts and Statistics. [online] Available at: https://www.camh.ca/en/driving-change/the-crisis-is-real/mental-health-statistics [Accessed 4 Oct. 2019].
Garrett, J., Clitherow, T., White, M., Wheeler, B., and Fleming, L. (2019). Coastal proximity and mental health among urban adults in England: The moderating effect of household income. *Health & Place*, p.102200.
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