In today's lecture, we'll discuss the impact of urban green spaces on mental health. Recent studies have shown that access to parks and gardens can significantly reduce stress levels. However, the key factor isn't just the presence of green areas, but their quality and accessibility. For instance, a well-maintained park with benches and walking paths encourages more frequent use than a neglected one. Interestingly, the research also found that even small green spaces, like street trees or rooftop gardens, can have positive effects. But the strongest benefits were observed in neighborhoods where residents actively participated in the design and maintenance of these spaces, fostering a sense of community ownership.