How environmental awareness and ecological engagement contribute to happiness, stress reduction, and improved mental well-being
according to World Happiness Report 2025, where Israel ranks eighth, “voluntary giving may lead to greater happiness,” with childcare or connection to the environment cited as examples. Indeed, in recent years, evidence has been mounting that environmental awareness is not just a moral or activist issue – it can also improve our quality of life. Environmental awareness is a holistic approach that combines knowledge about the environment, a sense of connection and responsibility towards nature, and active participation in sustainable actions. It is not limited to awareness of environmental challenges, but also includes recognition of the mutual influence between humans and the environment and the ability of a conscious connection to nature to improve quality of life and mental well-being.
Studies Studies suggest that activities such as spending time in nature, recycling, or adopting a sustainable lifestyle can reduce stress, increase a sense of meaning, and even contribute to mental health. Is it possible that the path to personal well-being also lies through our connection to the environment?
The environment – not just material, but also relationships
Most people perceive the concept of “sustainability” as something obligatory and sometimes even threatening – as if it were another list of tasks to add to an already busy schedule. But what if we looked at sustainability differently? Instead of being perceived as a concession, changing our lifestyle to one that is aligned with environmental values can offer us significant benefits on a personal level. In this way, we and the Earth can be part of a healthy relationship of giving and receiving that fills us with a deep sense of meaning in which we feel part of something greater and whole, without feeling separate and alienated from nature.
Studies Studies show that spending time in green spaces, consuming sustainable products, and even performing simple pro-environmental actions such as recycling and reduced energy use contribute to reducing stress, improving mood, strengthening the sense of meaning in life, and even healing and recovery. Medical proceduresEnvironmental awareness connects us to nature, provides a sense of belonging, and creates a situation where both parties – humans and the environment – benefit. Experiences of connection to nature were found As they increase a sense of satisfaction and mental balance, and even improve cognitive functions such as concentration and memory.
However, the connection between environmental awareness and mental well-being is not always clear-cut. Along with the benefits, there are cases where high environmental awareness may arouse concern and even anxiety.Studies It appears that people with high awareness of the climate crisis may experience ongoing worry and even Environmental anxiety, sometimes leading to feelings of helplessness. In addition, not every natural environment necessarily encourages positive feelings. For example, spaces without shelter or shelter, or particularly dense forests, may evoke feelings of discomfort and even fearThese factors highlight the need to understand the conditions under which environmental awareness can benefit mental well-being.
Some governments, such as the United Kingdom and New Zealand, have already integrated public policies focused on mental well-being alongside environmental sustainability. Photo: Dr. Gal Hagit Carasso Romano
A sustainable lifestyle – not just for the environment
Despite the complexity, there is no doubt that cultivating a conscious connection with nature improves our quality of life. Studies Studies conducted in Western countries indicate that investing in public policies that promote access to green spaces contributes to improving the general well-being of the population. Some governments, such as the United Kingdom and New Zealand, have already integrated מדיניות A public service that focuses on mental well-being alongside environmental sustainability, while emphasizing the importance of green spaces for the daily lives of citizens.
In the fields of education and mental health, alongside ancient practices for enhancing mental well-being such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga, there are approaches such as "ecotherapy" that offer new-old ways in which connecting with nature benefits mental health. Integrating nature into everyday life, whether through green recreational activities or environmental-educational policies, is a unique way to improve overall mental health.
The conclusion is clear: sustainability is not just a struggle to save the world, but also a way to improve our lives. Connecting to nature and the environment is not just an environmental value – it is the key to better mental health, to strengthening Mental toughness, for a sense of belonging and a more fulfilling life. Researchers It is emphasized that expanding research in this area will allow for a better understanding of the psychological mechanisms that mediate the connection between sustainability and well-being. So the next time you make the decision to adopt sustainable habits, you should know that it is not only for the sake of the planet, but also for yourself.
Dr. Gal Hagit Caruso Romano is the head Sustainability Division at Tel Hai Academic College And a graduate interface program. The article is based on the seminar work of Daniel Even and Roy Ben Ami from Tel Hai Academic College, and was prepared by angle - agency The news של the association the Israeli one for ecology and scientific הסביבה
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