Psycho-Ecological Dynamics: Relationship between Psychological Well-Being and Nature

Dear Colleagues,

Exploring the relationship between humans and their environment is an important avenue for research and action, given its profound effects on individual well-being and its crucial role in addressing the environmental crisis. In particular, the interplay between mental well-being and the natural environment can be viewed as a two-route model. On one hand, exposure to natural environments has been found to deeply impact mental well-being, by both increasing cognitive functions and reducing stress and other symptoms of mental disorders. On the other hand, mental wellbeing is credited as an important predictor of pro-environmental attitudes and behaviours. Yet, enhanced environmental awareness has been also found to negatively affect individuals’ well-being and their pro-environmental engagement. Specifically, acknowledging the threat of climate change may, in some cases, create profound psychological distress and, as a consequence, reduce the ability of individuals to adapt and address the environmental crisis.

This cyclic dynamic recognizes the inherent interdependence between us, humans, and our natural environment, and further highlights the intrinsic link between our health and that of our planet. Moreover, this perspective proposes that a positive feedback loop may be established, wherein enhancing mental wellbeing fosters a deeper appreciation for nature and strengthens individual engagement to preserve it; meanwhile, in turn, an improved human–nature relationship contributes to an enhancement in psychological well-being.

We therefore propose a new Special Issue that is designed to investigate the interplay between psychological well-being and the human–nature relationship on which pro-environmental attitudes and behaviour are based. By rigorously examining the role of mental well-being in shaping attitudes and behaviours toward the environment, as well as the impact of nature on individual well-being, we aim to establish a comprehensive understanding of the bidirectional dynamics at play.

This Special Issue will incorporate empirical research, theoretical examinations, and methodological contributions that offer valuable insights into interventions and policies that are aimed at fostering sustainable attitudes and behaviours; this is within a framework that acknowledges the interdependence of mental well-being and environmental awareness.

Dr. Mirko Duradoni
Dr. Luca Simione
Guest Editors

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• human–nature relationship
• mental well-being
• environmental awareness
• pro-environmental attitudes
• pro-environmental behaviors
• environmental mindfulness
• nature exposure
• psychological distress
• sustainable behaviors