The Nature-Health Connection: Exploring the Mediating Effect of Health Engagement in the Link Between Connectedness to Nature and Health Outcomes

With the rising prevalence of mental and physical diseases, there is an increasing focus on preventive health measures and factors affecting health. While previous research has established positive links between Connectedness to Nature (CN) and well-being, as well as between health engagement and health outcomes, the interplay between these three constructs remains understudied. This study investigates these relationships through mediation analysis exploring how health engagement mediates the link between CN and health outcomes. A cross-sectional design was employed, with data collected via online questionnaires from two samples: an Italian speaking sample (N = 807) and a German-speaking sample (N = 294). The survey assessed the Connectedness to Nature Scale (CNS), health engagement through the Altarum Consumer Engagement (ACE) Measure and a range of physical and psychological health outcomes, including stress, hope, depression and anxiety symptoms, hopelessness, physical exercise, dietary habits, and sleep hours and quality. Pearson correlations and mediation analyses were conducted using the ACE subscales Commitment and Navigation as separate mediator variables. The findings reveal significant correlations between CNS, ACE subscales and several health outcomes, and a varying mediating role of health engagement with effects ranging from no mediation to partial and full mediation across different health outcomes. Overall, this study highlights the complex interplay between these three constructs, offering insights into how fostering connection with nature and promoting health engagement may contribute to improved health outcomes. Key words: Health Engagement, Altarum Consumer Engagement, Connectedness to Nature, Health Outcomes, Mediation Analysis