Outdoor recreation has long been viewed as a leisure activity, but new research from Oregon State University suggests that it should be considered essential public health infrastructure. The study, published in PLOS One as part of the Play2Cope project, analyzed behavior and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic and found that outdoor recreation played a significant role in maintaining mental health.
Led by Xiangyou (Sharon) Shen, the study collected data through an online survey from a representative sample of the adult population in early 2021. The findings revealed that outdoor activities, particularly near-home activities like walking and gardening, were crucial for mental well-being during a challenging period in history. Reduced outdoor engagement was linked to higher levels of stress and depressive symptoms, highlighting the importance of outdoor recreation as a protective factor for mental health.
The research also shed light on disparities in outdoor engagement based on age, race, and financial situation. Racial minorities and individuals facing worsening financial circumstances reported reduced outdoor recreation, contributing to disproportionate mental health impacts. Shen emphasized the need to prioritize access to outdoor spaces, especially in park-poor areas or communities with vulnerable populations, during future health crises.
One of the most striking findings was the adaptability of individuals in maintaining or increasing outdoor recreation despite constraints. This adaptive engagement was a stronger predictor of continued outdoor activity than structural factors like park access, suggesting that policy support for recreational adaptation can make a real difference. Public education campaigns and flexible use policies for public spaces were recommended as strategies to promote outdoor recreation during crises.
The study concluded that outdoor recreation is not a luxury but a public health necessity, especially in times of crisis when traditional mental health services may be strained. Policymakers were urged to prioritize outdoor recreation access with the same urgency as other essential health services to improve population mental health and advance health equity. The research was led by Colby Parkinson, with contributions from other researchers at Oregon State University.
In a world where future pandemics are a possibility, the role of outdoor recreation in maintaining mental health cannot be understated. By recognizing outdoor spaces as essential infrastructure for well-being, policymakers can better support public health during challenging times. The study provides valuable insights into the importance of outdoor recreation and the need for inclusive access to green spaces for all individuals.
