Taking time to engage with nature has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health and overall wellbeing, with birdwatching being particularly effective. A study published in Environmental Psychology discovered that individuals who engage in nature-based experiences report better wellbeing and lower psychological distress compared to those who do not. Birdwatching, in particular, has shown promising results, with higher gains in subjective wellbeing and greater reductions in distress than more general nature exposure like taking walks.
Nils Peterson, a professor of forestry and environmental resources at North Carolina State University and an author of the study, emphasized that research indicates adolescents and college-aged individuals have been struggling the most with mental health during the pandemic. This suggests that birdwatching and other nature experiences could be beneficial for individuals of all ages seeking to improve their mental wellbeing.
Overall, the study highlights the importance of connecting with nature for mental health benefits. Whether it’s through birdwatching or other nature-based activities, taking time to engage with the natural world can have a positive impact on mental health and overall wellbeing.
