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Horticultural Therapy Program for People with Mental Illness: A Mixed-Method Evaluation.
Andrew M H Siu1, Michael Kam2, Ide Mok2
1Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hunghom, Hong Kong SAR, China.
Horticultural therapy (HT) effectively improves mental well-being and engagement for individuals with mental illness. However, it did not significantly alter affect or increase social interaction during the program.
Area of Science:
- Mental Health Research
- Therapeutic Interventions
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Horticultural therapy (HT) is recognized for its role in mental illness rehabilitation.
- Existing HT programs often lack standardization and rigorous evaluation.
- There is a need for evidence-based assessment of HT interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the process and outcomes of a standardized horticultural therapy program.
- To assess the impact of HT on stress, anxiety, engagement, affect, well-being, and social exchange.
- To utilize a mixed-methods approach for comprehensive data collection.
Main Methods:
- A standardized horticultural therapy program was implemented.
- Participants with mental illness were divided into treatment (HT) and comparison groups (n=41 each).
- Data were collected via questionnaires, observational ratings, and focus groups.
Main Results:
- Horticultural therapy demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing mental well-being and engagement.
- Participants reported reductions in stress and anxiety.
- Significant improvements in affect and social exchange were not consistently observed.
Conclusions:
- Horticultural therapy is a valuable tool for improving mental well-being and meaningful engagement.
- The study highlights limitations in HT's impact on affect and social exchange.
- Further research may be needed to optimize HT for broader therapeutic benefits.

