Mental health benefits associated with urban nature exposure have gained significant research attention. This study explored the relationships between self-reported stress levels and sociodemographic, behavioral, and environmental predictors related to urban forest access, using the 3-30-300 rule as a contextual framework (three trees visible from home, 30% neighborhood canopy cover, and 300 meters to the nearest green space). Sociodemographic factors such as age and income significantly influenced stress, with older individuals and those who are financially comfortable reporting lower stress levels. Environmental variables, such as tree canopy cover and the number of trees near residences were not significantly associated with stress. However, the frequency of green space visits demonstrated a significant impact. Daily time spent in natural areas significantly reduced stress, with weekly visits also linked to lower stress levels, whereas infrequent visits, such as only some times a year, were associated with higher stress, underscoring the importance of regular interaction with nature. These findings suggest that the frequency of green space visits may play a more critical role in stress reduction than the mere presence of urban greenery, at least in the context of this study. Policymakers and urban planners should prioritize enhancing access to high-quality, safe, and engaging green spaces to promote mental health. Future research should investigate the mechanisms driving these relationships and evaluate the long-term impacts of green space engagement on well-being.
Suhendy et al. (Fri,) studied this question.