Esther Bonney

How can horticultural therapy be effectively employed to address youth mental health challenges and promote environmental stewardship, considering its impacts on empowerment and sense of self?

Started Apr. 16, 2024

Abstract or project description

The mental health crisis among youth in the United States has reached critical levels. The CDC’s 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey reveals a troubling rise in depressive symptoms, with nearly 40% of high school students reporting persistent sadness or hopelessness and a significant increase in suicide attempts. Concurrently, there is a growing awareness of the issue of nature disconnect, as many young people increasingly report feeling alienated from the natural world.

In response to this crisis, innovative approaches are required that address both mental health and the growing disconnection from nature. Horticultural therapy—an approach involving therapeutic gardening and nature-based activities—emerges as a promising yet underutilized solution. This research aims to investigate the impact of horticultural therapy on youth empowerment and sense of self, exploring how horticulture exposure can improve mental well-being while promoting active involvement in environmental stewardship and community engagement.

By conducting a systematic review of existing literature and original qualitative research, this study aims to provide compelling evidence for integrating horticultural therapy into mental health care and educational frameworks as a dual-purpose intervention. The research will evaluate current knowledge on the intersection of horticultural engagement, mental health, and environmental attitudes and will be complemented by original data from pre- and post-surveys administered to rural youth in Maryland participating in a one-time horticultural intervention. These surveys will measure changes in mental health indicators and perceptions of environmental connection, offering insights into how such experiences influence well-being and environmental responsibility.

The findings are expected to provide robust evidence supporting the adoption of horticultural therapy as a foundational resource in adolescent mental health care. By demonstrating its efficacy in enhancing psychological well-being and fostering environmental stewardship, this study will offer actionable insights for educators, mental health professionals, and environmental advocates, advocating for the broader implementation of horticultural practices as a vital component of comprehensive youth support.