52%
more than half of reviewed studies linked restoration to mental health outcomes
Majority of studies connected psychological restoration to mental health
Drawing on 46 studies retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science, the review found that over half explicitly documented associations between restorative experiences in natural environments and mental health benefits, such as attention recovery and emotional regulation, aligning with SDG 3.4 on mental health promotion.
While 52% of the studies reported links between psychological restoration and mental health outcomes, fewer addressed connections to education (20%), sustainability (7%) or peace building (2%).
Related findings
park engagement has a stronger total effect on well-being than perceived restorativeness
Park engagement has a significant total effect on psychological health and well-being
Yuanbi Li et al., 2025, Environmental Research
study sample of elderly rural residents
Environmental satisfaction and QoL assessed among 144 elderly rural residents
Alisa Nutley, 2025, Journal of Urban Design
large urban survey on biodiversity and mental well-being
Perceived biodiversity positively associated with mental health, mediated by restoration and greenspace satisfaction
Kai Ma et al., 2025, Environmental Research
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