Planet Ark is encouraging Australians to get outdoors to do something good for their mental health this National Tree Day, 28 July, with research suggesting climate-related impacts on mental health are significantly affecting people’s wellbeing.
Eco-anxiety and climate distress are terms used to identify the feelings of concern and distress that result from climate change. They are particularly prevalent among young Australians.
A study released by youth mental health organisation Orygen in late 2023 found more than three in four (76%) of young people aged 16-25 were concerned about climate change with two thirds indicating these climate concerns were having a negative impact on youth mental health.
Headspace also commissioned a national survey of young Australians aged 18-25 last year, finding that more than half (53%) fear for the future due to climate change. Just under half (46%) worry about whether they’re doing enough to slow climate change, while almost six in 10 (59%) agreed not enough is being done at to address climate change at the government level.
“We know through our experiences with the National Tree Day program that there are significant benefits associated with spending time in nature, including enhanced learning, concentration, healing, relaxation and recovery, to name just a few,” says Planet Ark CEO Rebecca Gilling.
“Time in nature helps us thrive as individuals – physically, intellectually, emotionally, mentally, and ethically – and research suggests this is something young Australians really need at this time.”
According to Planet Ark, engaging in nature care activities such as planting trees to restore biodiversity, build urban green areas and improve community amenity can help address issues of climate distress and eco-anxiety from two angles.
Firstly, time in nature is proven to have a positive impact on mental health in general, the not-for-profit says. Even a brief interaction with nature, such as a walk in a tree-rich park, can significantly boost mood and cognitive function, with the calming effect of green spaces, as demonstrated by reductions in stress hormones when engaging with nature, particularly noteworthy.
Secondly, pro-environmental behaviours – where individuals take protective actions toward the environment – have been identified as a potential intervention for climate distress. Evidence suggests engaging in pro-environmental activities can provide a sense of hope, help them feel like part of the solution, and make them feel like they are being heard.
Previous Planet Ark research has shown that 82% of Australians feel spending time in nature is good for their physical and psychological wellbeing, while 69% agree spending time in nature increases their desire to protect the environment. Despite these significant benefits, the majority (75%) feel like they don’t spend enough time in nature.
Planet Ark’s National Tree Day provides an opportunity for individuals, schools, and community groups to contribute to a more sustainable future and create lasting change. This year, the program will celebrate Schools Tree Day on July 26, and National Tree Day on July 28.
Since the program was established in 1996, over five million volunteers have participated in National Tree Day events, planting over 27 million native trees, shrubs and grasses across every state and territory in Australia. This year there are over 1,000 events covering every state and territory across the country.
To find out how to participate or locate an event near you, visit the National Tree Day website – treeday.planetark.org
