Nearly all (93 percent) U.S. adults say that activities offered by local park and recreation professionals and their agencies are beneficial to their mental health. More than half of all adults indicate they receive mental health benefits from socializing with friends and family, spending time in nature, and exercising. Adults also say taking classes or learning something new; relaxing through meditation, yoga or tai chi; volunteering in the community; and attending or participating in arts and cultural programs have been beneficial to their mental health.

Local parks and recreation are instrumental in providing opportunities that improve mental health.

Key Findings:

• Ninety-three percent of U.S. adults say their mental health is improved by services offered by local park and recreation professionals and agencies.
• The top three mental health opportunities found in parks and recreation include: socializing with friends and family, spending time in nature, and exercising.