Researchers from the University of Exeter have proven that living on the seaside improves mental health. Scientists have published data based on a survey of 26 thousand respondents in England, according to the National Geographic website.
Approximately one in six adults in Foggy Albion suffers from mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. And these symptoms are much more common in people from poor families. The study found that access to the coast can improve health and well-being.
The study compared health data between people living less than a kilometer from the coast and those more than 50 kilometers from the sea.
“Our study shows for the first time that people in poor households close to the coast experience fewer symptoms of mental health problems. When it comes to mental health, this "protective" zone can play a useful role in helping to level the playing field between high and low income people,”said study leader Dr. Joe Garrett.
This work became part of the BlueHealth project, funded by the European Union's Horizon 2020 program.