A Mixed Methods Study on the Delivery of Green Health Interventions within Psychiatric Healthcare Settings

The aim of this study was to explore the practicalities of facilitating green health interventions within a clinical psychiatric setting and explore how the benefits of nature engagement can be harnessed by practitioners for those under their care. Three objectives were set: (1) to evaluate the Greenspace Demonstration Project at Hospital 1 (H1) through exploration of patient and staff experiences; (2) to explore the impact of The Greenspace Demonstration Projects on staff perceptions of hospital greenspaces as a source of therapeutic value for patients; and (3) to<br/>investigate the practicalities of facilitating green health activities with staff at two hospitals used as Greenspace Demonstration Project sites. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, using a range of quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection to address two overarching research questions, each with four secondary questions. Data collection involved secondary qualitative data, semi-structured questionnaires, interviews with staff and patients, and the use of<br/>a research diary to record observational data. The study found that The Greenspace Project at H1 was successful in engaging patients in a range of nature-based activities (NBA). However, differences existed among patient populations which the data and previous research have provided potential explanations for. Patients showed continued interest in, and positive affect<br/>from, activities which was supported by qualitative findings. The main factors found to affect engagement were weather and interest. Staff interviews elucidated mechanisms for facilitation of NBA; perceived barriers to facilitation of NBA in practice; suggestions for adapting the practicalities for the psychiatric healthcare setting; and the impact the project had on promoting nature for wellbeing, encouraging NBA and mainstreaming the natural environment for therapeutic intervention. Suggestions for practitioners including adapting NBA to suit the abilities and interests of patients; utilising hospital greenspace for therapeutic activity; supporting staff facilitation; incorporating NBA in clinical practice; and promotion are discussed.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

Master of Research (awarded by UHI)

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

Master's Thesis

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of the Highlands and Islands

Year dc:date.issued

2026

Author dc:creator

• McElroy, Erin Rose

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Gorely, Trish

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

oai:pure.atira.dk:studenttheses/1eef0f35-1422-4f98-a338-365832d7424a

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:pure.atira.dk:studenttheses/1eef0f35-1422-4f98-a338-365832d7424a