Published in ERW, 22 Feb 2016
A statistical analysis of the UK city of Glasgow has found a link between mental disorders and the presence of vacant and derelict land nearby.
The link indicates that areas with greater vacant and derelict land (VDL) will on the whole exhibit higher rates of mental health issues. But the researchers behind the analysis claim that the connection could be alleviated if the affected communities had a role in the urban-planning process.
“The relationship between VDL and inequitable health outcomes presents an opportunity for communities, urban planners, and governmental authorities to improve a neighbourhood’s physical condition,” said Juliana Maantay of City University of New York (CUNY), US. “[This] in turn will reduce the negative effects of stressors, thereby increasing resilience among the population, making them less vulnerable and more likely to stay healthier, both mentally and physically.” […]
The rest of this article is available here.