Today we're discussing the impact of urban green spaces on mental health. A recent study in Melbourne followed 500 residents over five years. Participants who visited parks at least once a week reported 20% lower stress levels. Interestingly, the size of the park mattered less than the presence of water features. Those who exercised in green spaces, like jogging, showed greater benefits than those who just sat. The study also found that people living within 300 meters of a park were more likely to use it daily. However, researchers noted that noise from traffic near parks reduced the positive effects by half.