Watching birds or listening to birdsong may boost mental wellbeing, with effects lasting up to eight hours, according to scientists. The findings, published in the journal Scientific Reports, come from real-time reports of participants from around the world.
It included those who have been diagnosed with depression. The researchers said their work shows the potential role birdlife could play in helping people with mental health conditions.
Andrea Mechelli, professor of early intervention in mental health at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, and senior author on the study, said: "Our study provides an evidence base for creating and supporting biodiverse spaces that harbour birdlife, since this is strongly linked with our mental health. In addition, the findings support the implementation of measures to increase opportunities for people to come across birdlife, particularly for those living with mental health conditions such as depression."
