@unpublished{theses_frw3509,
          author = {Julia Brink},
           title = {Greenspaces and perceived mental wellbeing during  COVID-19},
            year = {2021},
             url = {https://frw.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/3509/},
        abstract = {Several studies have been conducted investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its 
restricting measures on individuals? mental wellbeing. Feelings of uncertainty, fear, anger, 
frustration and loneliness might arise as the measures might include social distancing and 
isolation. Greenspaces are considered to be places of relaxation, exercise, solace and respite 
during the pandemic, however, qualitative research on the relationship between mental wellbeing 
and greenspace is missing in existing literature. This research aims to provide context by 
answering the question: How does visiting greenspace influence perceived mental wellbeing 
during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hence nine interviews with urban and rural residents of 
Groningen were conducted. In conclusion, it was found that the pandemic harmed individuals? 
mental wellbeing, as it led to less face-to-face contact and being more homebound. Furthermore, 
overall, greenspaces were visited more frequently during the pandemic and gained a social 
function next to its function to provide a break from working from home. New greenspaces were 
increasingly visited as interviewees had more time for this and an increased desire to see new 
things. Visiting greenspace helped to alleviate stress and it was perceived as peaceful and 
serene, positively impacting perceived mental wellbeing.}
}