Sustainability and mental health

Sustainability and mental health

Sustainability and mental health are two topics that have a strong impact on our modern lives. They have long been viewed as separate areas, but when examined in more detail, they embody profound connections. While sustainability promotes a healthy and sustainable environment, mental health is concerned with maintaining and improving our mental and emotional states. By living more sustainably, we not only benefit our planet, but also improve our mental health. This article highlights the connections between sustainability and mental health and presents strategies and practices on how we can strengthen and improve both aspects in our daily lives.

The connection between sustainability and mental health

The comprehensive perspective

Our environment significantly influences our state of mind. A healthy, clean and sustainably designed environment promotes our well-being and mental health. Conversely, a polluted and run-down environment can cause stress and promote depression or anxiety.

Living close to nature and sustainably has proven to be therapeutic. For example, an article published in the journal Mental Health Practice presented research showing that people who live in green spaces are less likely to suffer from mental illness. Activities such as gardening and nature walks reduce stress, anxiety and depression and promote overall well-being.

So there is a reciprocal relationship between our mental state and our attitude towards nature and sustainability. When we are psychologically healthy, we are better able to maintain sustainable habits and practices and promote a healthy environment. And when we actively promote a sustainable lifestyle, our mental health improves.

The effect of climate change on mental health

The effects of climate change not only affect the physical environment, but also have a significant impact on our mental health. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports, the direct and indirect impacts of climate change lead to increased stress and anxiety. A constant state of worry and fear about the effects of climate change can be described as “eco-anxiety” or “climate anxiety”.

Sustainability as a way to improve mental health

Sustainable living

A sustainable lifestyle not only benefits the environment, but also our mental health. When we align our lifestyles with sustainability, we take an active role in our lives and feel like we are contributing to solving global problems. This leads to an increased sense of self-efficacy and purpose, which has a positive impact on our mental health.

Sustainable nutrition

Even on an individual level, such as our eating habits, sustainability has a direct relationship to our mental health. A healthy and balanced diet that relies on sustainable foods not only provides our bodies with the necessary nutrients, but also supports our mental health. A study published in the "British Journal of Psychiatry" showed that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains reduced the risk of depression.

Conclusion

The overlap between sustainability and mental health cannot be ignored. A sustainable lifestyle helps improve our mental health and overall well-being. To achieve a sustainable future, we should not only care for the environment but also our mental health. The pursuit of ecological sustainability and maintaining our mental health are two sides of the same coin. Ultimately, it's about creating an intact ecosystem and a healthy mental state that ensure our well-being and life on our planet.