Today we're discussing the impact of urban green spaces on mental health. A recent study from the University of Melbourne followed 500 adults over five years. Participants who visited parks at least once a week reported 20% lower stress levels than those who rarely went outside. Interestingly, the benefits were strongest for people aged 40 to 60, not younger adults as expected. The researchers also noted that even small gardens or rooftop green areas provided similar effects, but only if they contained trees or shrubs, not just grass. So, the key is vegetation density, not park size.