The Connection Between Lack of Equity in Green Spaces and Black Mental Health In Atlanta
As I walked on the trail near my Atlanta neighborhood, I thought of how it is the only trail for miles. I can’t help but be reminded of the fact that in Atlanta, access to green spaces is not an equitable experience. Mind you, green spaces have a multitude of health and wellness benefits leading me to my next thought that Black communities do not have the same access to mental health and wellbeing resources.
Green spaces are any place or area that give environmental benefits such as increased oxygen production and decrease of CO2 into the environment. There are also other health benefits to green spaces such as lower stress levels, blood pressure, cholesterol and incidents of diabetes in communities. Along with providing more opportunities for walking and fitness activities, a report from the EPA shows green spaces have health benefits, and they also foster a sense of community.
“Community open, green space is socially valuable. Walkable neighborhoods, parks, and open green spaces draw people outside and foster social interactions.” EPA
When it comes to Black communities, access to green amenities is not a given.
On the Trust for Public Land’s 2022 Park Score Equity Index, Atlanta scored a 48%. This means that “residents living in neighborhoods of color have access to 48% less nearby park space than those living in white neighborhoods and residents living in lower-income neighborhoods have access to 33% less nearby park space than those in higher-income neighborhoods.” This demonstrates a vast disparity in access to these spaces and the health and community benefits that they bring.
This lack of access to mental health benefits is not an isolated occurrence. Black and indigenous people of color are more likely to suffer from mental illnesses and less likely to receive care.
The lack of green space exacerbates feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression—issues that are often compounded by inadequate mental health support systems. As someone who deals with a mental illness, access to green spaces has oftentimes been a lifeline. The ability to get outside, walk on the sidewalk, access hiking and neighborhood trails has helped me to find clarity in moments of distress.
The Need for Reclamation: Urban Gardens, Vertical Gardens, and Public Parks
I’d like to leave you with the charge to find and value those green spaces around you and urge officials to protect areas that are unconventional, but certainly valuable places of greenery and community. Do it for the environment, yes, but also for the quality of life for yourself and those around you.
Here is a list of my favorite green spaces around Atlanta:
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
The Garden Queen - West End Community Urban Garden & Nursery
Urban Food Forest at Browns Mill
Sweetwater Creek
Grant Park Community Garden
Perkerson Park
Kennesaw Mountain
