Understanding the relationship between neighbourhood green space and mental wellbeing: A case study of Beijing, China

The past few decades have seen increasing academic interest in the association between green space and mental health. However, the existing studies have largely been undertaken in developed countries, while less attention has been paid to rapidly urbanizing countries. Based on a 2015 survey of 701 residents in 16 typical neighbourhoods of Beijing, this study aims to partially fill this gap by investigating the complex relationship between neighbourhood green space and residents' mental health in urban China. We developed multilevel regression models to test the associations among green space, social cohesion, physical activity, and mental health. The findings reveal the positive association between green space and mental health in a high-density and compact urban environment and suggest that physical activity and social cohesion might play a mediating role in the association. The study provides an empirical evidence for the potential benefit of green space on mental health from an Asian perspective and sheds light on the ways to promote public mental health through effective urban planning and design. • We developed multilevel regression models to test the association between green space and mental health. • In a high-density and compact urban environment a positive association exists between green space and mental health. • The findings imply that the association might be mediated both by neighbourhood social environment and by physical activity. • Urban planners can improve mental health not only by providing more green space, but by enhancing its attractiveness.