Residential environment, physical activity and depressive symptoms in adults
Thesis event information
Date and time of the thesis defence
Place of the thesis defence
University of Oulu, Linnanmaa, lecture hall L2
Topic of the dissertation
Residential environment, physical activity and depressive symptoms in adults
Doctoral candidate
Master of Science Marjo Seppänen
Faculty and unit
University of Oulu Graduate School, Faculty of Science, Geography Research Unit
Subject of study
Medicine
Opponent
Professor Sari Stenholm, University of Turku
Custos
Professor Raija Korpelainen, University of Oulu and Oulu Deaconess Institute Foundation sr
Green residential environment can prevent depressive symptoms
Doctoral researcher Marjo Seppänen from the University of Oulu and the ODL Department of Sports and Exercise Medicine found in her doctoral thesis that living in a greener residential environment was associated with fewer depressive symptoms compared to living in densely built urban areas. The findings of the study can be utilised in the planning of residential environments that promote mental wellbeing.
The thesis examined the relationship between physical activity, including 24-hour movement behaviours of physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep, and features of the residential environment in relation to depressive symptoms. The study used a large Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 (n = 5860), as well as statistical and geospatial methods and accelerometers, which provided precise data on participants’ physical activity. Additionally, the prevalence of depressive symptoms was compared internationally based on previous research.
The results showed that the prevalence of depression symptoms varies between countries. Urbanicity and higher population density were associated with a greater likelihood of severe depressive symptoms, whereas greener residential environments were associated with fewer symptoms. Moderate to vigorous physical activity and longer sleep duration were associated with fewer depressive symptoms among rural residents, whereas reducing sedentary time was associated with fewer symptoms among urban residents.
Depression is a serious public health challenge, affecting 5–7 per cent of Finns annually. It diminishes quality of life and is the leading single cause of disability worldwide. The causes of depression are multifaceted, and its prevention and treatment require a diverse range of approaches.
“The results of my research can be applied, for example, in urban planning and healthcare practices to promote mental health,” Seppänen states. “Preserving and increasing green spaces, as well as taking into account daily activities, physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep, can offer opportunities to reduce depressive symptoms at the population level. Our findings support the design of environments and services that promote physical activity and psychological well-being. However, to understand the causal relationships between residential environment and mental health, longitudinal studies are still needed,” Seppänen adds.
The thesis examined the relationship between physical activity, including 24-hour movement behaviours of physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep, and features of the residential environment in relation to depressive symptoms. The study used a large Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 (n = 5860), as well as statistical and geospatial methods and accelerometers, which provided precise data on participants’ physical activity. Additionally, the prevalence of depressive symptoms was compared internationally based on previous research.
The results showed that the prevalence of depression symptoms varies between countries. Urbanicity and higher population density were associated with a greater likelihood of severe depressive symptoms, whereas greener residential environments were associated with fewer symptoms. Moderate to vigorous physical activity and longer sleep duration were associated with fewer depressive symptoms among rural residents, whereas reducing sedentary time was associated with fewer symptoms among urban residents.
Depression is a serious public health challenge, affecting 5–7 per cent of Finns annually. It diminishes quality of life and is the leading single cause of disability worldwide. The causes of depression are multifaceted, and its prevention and treatment require a diverse range of approaches.
“The results of my research can be applied, for example, in urban planning and healthcare practices to promote mental health,” Seppänen states. “Preserving and increasing green spaces, as well as taking into account daily activities, physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep, can offer opportunities to reduce depressive symptoms at the population level. Our findings support the design of environments and services that promote physical activity and psychological well-being. However, to understand the causal relationships between residential environment and mental health, longitudinal studies are still needed,” Seppänen adds.
Last updated: 13.6.2025