International Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Open Access
ISSN: 2329-9096
+44 1300 500008
ISSN: 2329-9096
+44 1300 500008
Dr, Department of People and Society, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
Review Article
Does More Time in a Therapeutic Garden Lead to a Faster Return to Work? A Prospective Cohort Study of Nature-Based Therapy, Exploring the Relationship between Dose and Response in the Rehabilitation of Long-Term Patients Suffering from Stress-Related Mental Illness
Author(s): Patrik Grahn* and Anna Maria Palsdottir
Background: Stress-related mental illness is increasing worldwide and leading to long-term illness. Most of those affected are aged 30-50, so the need for rehabilitation and return to work for these patients is great. Research indicates that staying in nature can lead to stress recovery. The question is whether nature-based therapy can rehabilitate people who suffer from long-term stress-related mental illness, and how long a period of rehabilitation is necessary.
Methods and findings: The research was carried out at Alnarp Rehabilitation Garden, which is a specially designed health garden on the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences’ campus area, where the participants in the study were treated by a licensed rehabilitation team. The intention was to examine three cohorts of participants prospectively. These were offered differen.. View More»