The Impact of Horticultural Activities on Negative Psychological Emotions among Chinese Residents: A Cross-sectional Study of a National Representative Sample Based on Propensity Score Matching

Complement Ther Med. 2025 Oct 31:103293. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103293. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to analyze the prevalence characteristics of negative emotions among Chinese residents and explore the impact of participating in horticultural activities on negative emotions of Chinese residents.

METHODS: Data for this study were obtained from the 2022 China Residents’ Psychological and Behavioral Investigation and Research Program. This study used propensity score matching (PSM) to balance the variables and employed both binary and multiple logistic regression analyses to investigate the effects of horticultural activity participation (including frequency and duration) on levels of depression, anxiety, and loneliness.

RESULTS: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and loneliness among respondents was 56.5%, 45.7%, and 44.7%, respectively. Female respondents exhibited significantly higher risks of depression (P < 0.01) and anxiety (P < 0.05) compared to males. Adults aged 18-45 years showed markedly increased vulnerability to depression and anxiety relative to other age groups. Retired and unemployed individuals reported substantially elevated levels of depression and anxiety compared to employed respondents. Rural residents demonstrated significantly higher risks of negative psychological emotions than urban residents (P < 0.01). Participation in horticultural activities was significantly associated with reduced levels of depression (P < 0.01) and anxiety (P < 0.05), with more frequent participation correlating with stronger protective effects. Regarding loneliness, significant associations were found with gender, age, occupation, education level, and involvement in horticultural activities, including frequency, duration, and acceptance of horticultural therapy (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of negative emotions among Chinese residents is relatively high, and horticultural activity participation was associated with reduced levels of negative psychological symptoms. Governments, social organizations, and other stakeholders should promote related activities with frequencies and durations that are scientifically grounded and tailored to individual needs. In addition, to comprehensively enhance people’s mental health, attention must be given to the characteristics and needs of different groups.

PMID:41177365 | DOI:10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103293