THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF URBAN GREEN SPACE ON MENTAL WELL-BEING OF RESIDENTS OF LAGOS MEGA CITY

Abstract

The overwhelming majority of urban cities in Nigeria are characterized by densely packed architectural infrastructures, with scant attention paid to the provision of green areas. This trend has far-reaching consequences for the mental well-being of city residents, which is alarmingly deteriorating. Therefore, this study assessed the impact of urban green space (UGS) on mental well-being. UGS Effect on Human Mental Well-being (UGM) questionnaire was used to elicit responses from two hundred residents who were selected from Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos. Frequency counts with percentages and multiple regression analysis were used for data analysis. The study revealed a high level of awareness of the factors that contribute to mental well-being. Frequency of park visits, social connections, green spaces around home and work environment collectively predict mental well-being accounting for 97% of the variance @p< 0.000 (regression analysis). However, the frequency of park visits, green spaces around homes and work environment emerged as statistically significant predictors of mental well-being with significant beta values (0.141, 0.567, 0.280). Therefore, UGSs have a significant positive impact on mental well-being, mitigating the negative effects of urbanization but their availability and accessibility were hindered by factors such as economic constraints, scarcity, and competing land uses. Lagos State Building Control Agency, Physical Planning Permit Authority, Urban Renewal Agency and Lagos State Planning and Environmental Monitoring Agency should encourage effective government policy and promote public-private partnerships which are crucial for establishing and managing UGS.