ReviewImplementation science communications2026
The essential elements for successful implementation of nature therapy programs in mental health services: a systematic review with narrative synthesis.
Review in Implementation science communications, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
What it found
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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
The trial behind it
Trials whose registry record cites this paper, or whose number appears in the abstract. A trial that started after this paper was published is citing it as background, not reporting it.
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Who cites it
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Corrections and comments
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Authors and funding
8 authors.
Funding
Abstract
backgroundThe potential of nature-based interventions (NBIs) for improving mental health is gaining interest worldwide. However, the elements for successful implementation of nature therapy programs by mental health service providers have not been clearly identified. The review question was, what elements are essential to successfully implement nature therapy programs in mental health services?
methodsThe study was carried out as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria. Four electronic databases including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and PsycINFO were searched to identify eligible studies. Studies were assessed for eligibility based on predefined inclusion criteria, and data were extracted in line with the review question. Two reviewers independently used the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) to assess the quality of the articles.
resultsOut of 1663 articles, 38 met the inclusion criteria, with 10 found to have a high or moderate risk of bias. Sample sizes ranged from 8-781. The findings revealed that structured programs, guidance from trained multidisciplinary practitioners, and opportunities for participants to connect socially are key elements of successful implementation of nature-based therapy programs. Challenges to implementation were identified as logistical constraints, unfavourable external conditions, insufficient guidelines, and limited availability of resources.
conclusionThis systematic review identifies essential elements of successful implementation of nature-based therapy programs in mental health services. Although implementation strategies are rarely reported, a preliminary implementation framework derived from indirect evidence offers practical guidance for NBIs design, while highlighting the need for further research on implementation processes and sustainability.
trial registrationThe protocol of this review was registered in the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), under the identification number CRD42024562262.
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