Latest news with #AmericanPsychiatryAssociation
Medscape
27-05-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Growing Evidence for the Healing Power of ‘Forest Therapy'
LOS ANGELES — Spending time in a forest — an experience known as Shinrin-Yoku, or 'forest bathing,' in Japan where the practice originated — can lift mood, reduce stress, and promote physical health, a new literature review suggested. Most of the studies included in the review reported moderate to strong effect sizes, using validated measures such as the Profile of Mood States (POMS) and physiological indicators like blood pressure. Taking a walk in the forest appears to be beneficial and may have therapeutic potential, said study investigator Donovan Dennis, a third-year medical student at Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan. It's something physicians could consider prescribing to their patients, he told Medscape Medical News . Donovan Dennis The findings were presented on May 18 at the American Psychiatry Association (APA) 2025 Annual Meeting. Designated Forests More than half of the world's population lives in urban environments, where managing stress and maintaining a positive mindset during crises can be difficult. Over time, chronic stress can contribute to anxiety and fatigue. In response, experts are increasingly exploring alternative and holistic approaches to mental well-being, spurring research into the psychological benefits of immersing oneself in nature, particularly forest settings. Japan has been a leader in this movement. As of 2019, the country had designated approximately 60 official forestry therapy trails. The review included 15 studies conducted in Japan, the United States, Poland, and several other countries. Study designs varied: One was a meta-analysis, three were systematic reviews, and the remaining 11 were observational studies or randomized experimental models. Most participants were considered 'healthy,' although some studies included individuals 'with depressive tendencies,' said Dennis. The study populations also varied by setting — for example, one study focused on healthcare workers, while another involved patients from a psychiatric hospital. Although all of the studies examined forest bathing, typically defined as walking in a forest, the practice itself lacks a standardized definition, Dennis noted. Positive Therapeutic Effects Most of the studies involved walking in a forest for about 2 hours, twice a week. However, durations varied — some had participants walk for as little as 10 minutes, while others extended sessions to 3 hours, said Dennis. In some cases, the intervention was defined by distance rather than time; for example, one study involved a 2.5-km walk, and another covered 4 km. The overall length of the studies also varied, ranging from a few weeks to several months. Researchers examined both psychological and physiological effects of forest bathing. While most studies used POMS to assess mood, several also measured physiological markers such as serotonin levels, blood pressure, and heart rate, Dennis noted. The analyses generally showed positive effects of forest therapy on mental health, with some studies also reporting benefits for the cardiovascular and immune systems, as well as improvements in inflammation and antioxidant activity. 'Forest therapy might be therapeutic for folks living with depression or anxiety, but also preventatively to support general wellness, and connectedness with nature,' said Dennis. However, the review did not clarify the role of factors such as frequency, duration, or seasonality in shaping the benefits of forest therapy, Dennis noted. While the findings are promising, they do not support forest therapy as a replacement for pharmacological treatment. Larger, well-controlled studies with standardized protocols are needed to confirm its benefits, he said. Growing Acceptance Commenting on the research for Medscape Medical News , Environmental Psychologist Sabine Huemer, PhD, assistant professor, School of Psychological Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, said she was surprised but pleased that forest therapy was discussed at a psychiatry conference. Huemer said she initially believed that psychiatry remained rooted in traditional therapy and medical treatments but now recognizes that the field is expanding to include alternative approaches such as psychedelic-assisted therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and ecotherapy or nature therapy. Huemer pointed to resources like Park Rx America, which encourage physicians to prescribe time in nature as part of routine healthcare. In Japan, doctors often prescribe forest therapy to stressed businesspeople as a way to 'recharge and recover,' she noted. An eco-therapist herself, Huemer has developed a 'mindfulness in nature' program aimed at reducing stress and promoting mental well-being, that draws on the principles of Shinrin-Yoku. Although the review did not include original data and was based on a limited number of studies, it highlights the rejuvenating effects of nature, Huemer said. She noted that these benefits apply not only to adults but also to children, many of whom are spending less time outdoors. Huemer and her colleagues have been studying eco-anxiety among US college students. Eco-anxiety — defined as worry about the future of the planet — primarily affects members of Generation Z and younger cohorts, those born in the mid-to-late 1990s, she said. It can interfere with daily functioning and sleep, and often leads to intrusive, recurring thoughts. Their research, presented in a poster at the APA 2025 Annual Meeting, showed that higher levels of eco-anxiety were associated with personal experiences of climate change and a prior diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder. Interestingly, and in contrast to findings from other studies, they did not find that collective activism — such as participation in environmental clubs — served as a buffer against eco-anxiety. Also commenting on the forest bathing review, Umadevi Naidoo, MD, an instructor in the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Nutrition at Harvard Medical School and Director of Nutritional and Lifestyle Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, said she was 'happy to see a poster on forest bathing,' noting that it aligns with the focus on lifestyle interventions at the APA 2025 annual meeting. She noted that forest medicine is gaining acceptance as an additional lifestyle option for patients. Naidoo, who is often referred to as 'America's Nutritional Psychiatrist,' is a professional chef, nutritional biologist, and author of several books on the impact of food on brain health.
Fox News
27-02-2025
- Health
- Fox News
Light therapy lamps to combat the wintertime blues
The winter and its lack of sunshine can trigger what's known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. This seasonal slump is more than just a fleeting funk for some people. Roughly ten million Americans suffer from seasonal depressive disorder, according to the American Psychiatry Association. The remedy you may not have thought of? Light therapy lamps. The challenge of getting outside when it's cold and dark can compound these feelings and a daily dose of sunshine via a light therapy lamp might be just what the doctor ordered. Light therapy lamps have emerged as a practical solution to combat the lack of natural sunlight. These lamps simulate sunlight, helping to regulate your body's internal clock and boosting mood and energy levels, even regulating sleep and appetite. Whether you prioritize portability, design or functionality, one of these lamps can help keep your spirits high until spring returns. Here are ten options to consider if you're exploring self-care in the form of light therapy. The Verilux HappyLight Luxe is popular for those seeking a high-quality, portable light therapy lamp. It offers customizable brightness settings up to 10,000 lux and a compact design, making it perfect for desks or nightstands. The lamp's UV-free light ensures safe usage and mimics natural daylight, helping users feel energized and focused. If you're really craving that sunshine on the go, the brand makes a mini version you can stash in your purse. Known for its sleek, modern design, Circadian Optics lamps provide 10,000 lux of UV-free light in a compact, foldable structure. Their adjustable light settings allow users to tailor their therapy to their preferences and the minimalistic aesthetic fits well in any environment. If you want one that also serves as home decor, check out this lattice style from Circadian Optics. The Carex Day-Light Classic Plus is designed for individuals who need a robust and effective light therapy lamp. Its larger screen provides a broad light field, delivering 10,000 lux of glare-free brightness. The adjustable height and angle ensure maximum comfort during therapy sessions. If this one's above your budget, Amazon offers a similar lamp for almost $50 less. Whichever you choose, if you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today. With a large, bright light screen and customizable timer settings, the Aura lamp is an affordable option for comprehensive light therapy. It emits 10,000 lux of UV-free light and includes adjustable brightness levels, making it ideal for morning routines or workspaces. Aura also offers this nifty version, with an LED time display and alarm clock built in, so you can always wake up on the right side of the bed. More than just a light therapy lamp, the Philips SmartSleep combines wake-up light and therapy features. It simulates natural sunrise and sunset patterns, helping regulate your sleep-wake cycle. The lamp also offers customizable light intensities and soundscapes for a holistic approach to winter wellness. If that's above your budget, Amazon offers this alternative for half the price. The Boxelite lamp provides powerful, 10,000 lux light therapy worthy of its higher price tag in a sleek minimalist design that won't take up a lot of space on your desk, vanity or dresser. Its large light-emitting surface and UV-free light make it an effective and safe option for combating SAD symptoms. The sturdy construction and adjustable angle add to its appeal. Walmart also has this model for slightly less. Designed by the creators of the original wake-up light, the Lumie Vitamin L light is a slim and lightweight option. Its 10,000 lux brightness and compact design make it easy to use at home or on the go. The frosted lens diffuses light evenly, ensuring a comfortable experience. Buy it from the brand directly and save nearly $20. Original price: $79.99 Like many others, the Beurer four-in-one offers 10,000 lux of evenly distributed, UV-free light – but this time in a simple, circular design and with tons of other bells and whistles. It's compact enough to fit into small spaces and has an alarm clock, Bluetooth with four sleep melodies and sunset fading settings. You can even control it from your smartphone. You can also consider this Better Homes and Gardens version available at Walmart. What could be considered the Bentley of light box therapy, the NorthStar 10,000 is a professional-grade light therapy lamp for those needing a more intense therapy experience. The lamp's large screen and durable construction are ideal for long-term use. Another option is the brand's mini model – still powerful, but in a smaller package. For more deals, visit Since users realized light therapy also has many other benefits, including physical ones, a new category of wearable light therapy has emerged, like this DNA Vibe Jazz Band device. It uses infrared light and is said to reduce stiffness, inflammation and pain while accelerating recovery from injury. The flexible construction is computer-optimized to fit every body part, including knees, neck, back, shoulders, elbows, ankles, hands, feet and more. If you still want the mental benefits of light therapy in a wearable device, check out these blue light glasses with a travel case.
