2026/07/27 by Yasuhiro Kotera, Olena Venger, Olha LIUTA +1 · 1 voice
Environmental Science · Computer Science · Arts and Humanities · #Urban Green Space and Health #Virtual Reality Applications and Impacts #Art Therapy and Mental Health
paper · pdf · doi:10.1192/bji.2026.10124
openalex publication_date 2026/07/27 · openalex created_date 2026/07/28 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/01
The war in Ukraine is causing severe psychological strain among civilians in conflict-affected areas, where conventional mental healthcare is hard to deliver. Research in environmental psychology, lifestyle medicine and digital health suggests that simulated nature exposure can reduce stress, improve mood and aid recovery from depression. Nature contact is a core pillar of lifestyle psychiatry, alongside activity, nutrition and sleep. We propose technology-assisted forest bathing via virtual reality or screen-based experiences as a feasible, low-cost, culturally adaptable option, scalable through humanitarian and community frameworks, for Ukrainians unable to access care.