Nature and Mental Health

In urban environments, nature can sometimes seem like an afterthought where development takes precedence over green spaces. Luckily for us, Johnson County has prioritized keeping nature throughout its neighborhoods and commercial areas. It turns out, the presence of green spaces isn’t just beneficial for recreational opportunities, but for community resilience and mental health as well. Let’s dig into this a little more.

Johnson County is home to many parks and trails that offer residents easy access to the outdoors. The Johnson County Park & Recreation District manages nearly 10,000 acres of natural areas including forests, wetlands, prairies, and lakes. Cities within Johnson County also have many parks of their own. Whether it’s hiking the Mill Creek Streamway Trail, watching wildlife at Lake Olathe, or exploring the native tallgrass prairie at Kill Creek Park, these spaces provide vital daily contact with the natural world, which has many benefits to residents.

Scientific research shows that time in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and aid cognitive function regardless of a person’s age or lifestyle. Even the presence of trees in highly developed areas can lower anxiety and clear mental fatigue, helping urban dwellers reset and reconnect. For children especially, nearby parks and natural spaces support emotional regulation, stronger attention spans, and healthier development.

Along with its benefits to individuals, nature also has been shown to improve and strengthen community bonds. Parks and trails are excellent places for groups to meet, such as families, friends, and special interest groups. Social cohesion and a sense of belonging are essential aspects of psychological well-being.

For the future, it is vital that access to nature remains a priority as communities continue to develop and expand. Efforts to restore native prairies and conserve watershed areas reflect a deeper understanding that green infrastructure supports not just biodiversity, but civic health and resilience in the face of rapid development.

So, there it is. The presence of nature in urban spaces isn’t just a way to make an area prettier. It’s a lifeline for those of us who sometimes need to take a break. Luckily, we live in a county that has lots of areas to escape to. The next time you feel anxious or overwhelmed, consider taking a hike or sitting in a park for a while.

by Amy Keigher, Natural Resources Agent, 2026