Exploring how greenspace programmes might be effective in supporting people with problem substance use: a realist...

Area of Science:

• Environmental psychology
• Public health
• Addiction research

Background:

• Greenspace programmes, focused on outdoor nature activities, primarily aim to enhance mental health.
• Emerging evidence suggests their potential efficacy in supporting individuals with problem substance use (PSU).
• Understanding the specific components driving success in PSU populations remains limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test, refine, and consolidate a realist-informed intervention framework for greenspace programmes.
• To elucidate how these programmes specifically support individuals with problem substance use (PSU).

Main Methods:

• A realist approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 17 participants (8 programme staff, 9 stakeholders).
• Interviews explored contexts, mechanisms, and outcomes (CMOs) related to greenspace programmes for mental health and PSU.
• Data analysis involved inductive and deductive approaches against a proposed framework.

Main Results:

• The findings supported the proposed framework, identifying key supporting elements: escape, reflection, physical activity, self-efficacy, purpose, relationships, and shared experiences.
• Essential considerations for programme success include explicit intervention focus, funding, stakeholder engagement, and adapting to challenges like COVID-19.
• A refined framework was developed, illustrating the mechanisms through which greenspace programmes aid individuals with PSU.

Conclusions:

• The study offers theoretically novel insights with practical implications for designing and implementing effective greenspace interventions.
• Recommendations are provided for optimising and tailoring future programmes for mental health and PSU support.
• Findings are relevant for researchers, health professionals, and third-sector organisations involved in greenspace programme delivery.