The role of nature in psychological wellbeing of people living with long term physical health conditions

<p dir="ltr">It is long established that engagement with nature can support human health and wellbeing. In recent years, interaction with nature has been advanced to be of potential benefit for people living with long-term physical health conditions (LTCs).</p><p dir="ltr">Systematic Literature Review</p><p dir="ltr">This review sought to systematically appraise published evidence of the application of nature-based interventions (NBIs) to address psychological wellbeing for those living with LTCs. Eighteen studies exploring NBI for people with LTCs were included and their findings compiled across a range of psychological outcomes. Quality appraisal showed modest robustness with some methodological weaknesses. Findings suggest that reported psychological outcomes present an argument for NBIs having a promising and positive impact on psychological wellbeing for people living with LTCs. This suggests NBIs may offer a suitable addition to current maintenance treatment.</p><p dir="ltr">Empirical Research Project</p><p dir="ltr">This study investigated the association between interaction with natural environments and the psychological wellbeing of people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). An online survey was completed by people with a diagnosis of CKD, and their “significant others” without CKD. Questions assessed psychological wellbeing, patient activation status, symptom frequency, physical activity, and nature interaction. Survey responses were received for 367 participants (non-dialysis [NDCKD], n=188; kidney transplant recipients [KTR], n=70; haemodialysis [HD], n=40; peritoneal dialysis [PD], n=21; and significant others [SO], n=48). Findings indicated that nature interaction was modestly associated with better psychological wellbeing in people with CKD. These findings highlight how we can better support people living with CKD to access nature, with potential positive impacts on their psychological wellbeing.</p>