Evaluation of Horticultural Therapy for Enhancing Women's Well-Being: A Randomized Waitlist-Controlled Trial

Abstract

<p><strong>Objectives:</strong> The current study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of a horticultural program specifically designed to improve the overall well-being of women in Hong Kong. <strong>Methods:</strong> A two-arm randomized waitlist-controlled trail was employed in the current study. A total of 208 adult female participants recruited from communities in Hong Kong attended the intervention. Participants’ physical, mental and spiritual well-being were measured pre-, post and 2-month after the intervention. <strong>Results:</strong> In both within-group and between-group comparison, the physical health condition of participants showed no significant change, while substantial improvements were observed in both mental and spiritual well-being. Participants with high initial scores for depressive and anxiety symptoms experienced more significant enhancements across all body–mind–spirit dimensions. <strong>Clonclusions:</strong> This study provides robust evidence that the horticultural program significantly contributes to the holistic improvement of the body–mind–spirit well-being of the participants. It holds promise for broader application within community mental health service settings.<br></p>