New research suggests that people who live close to ocean or sea are happier. Researchers from University of Exeter in UK say people who live in coastal areas have better mental health than people who live inland. This is for rich people and poor people. The researchers looked at data from surveys of 25,963 people. surveys asked people questions about their happiness, lifestyle and income. They found that those who live within one kilometer of coast are 22 per cent less likely to show any signs of mental health problems. People who lived more than 50 kilometers from coast had more symptoms of mental health problems. researchers found that poorer people living within sight of coast were around 40 per cent less likely to have mental health symptoms than those who lived inland.
Lead researcher of study, doctor Jo Garrett, said: "Our research suggests, for first time, that people in poorer households living close to coast experience fewer symptoms of mental health disorders." She said area along coasts seemed to protect people from experiencing mental health problems. They seemed to improve people's health and wellbeing. Dr Garrett added: "When it comes to mental health, this protective zone could play useful role in helping to level playing field between those on high and low incomes." Another researcher, Dr Mathew White, said: "We need to help policy makers understand how to maximize wellbeing benefits of 'blue' spaces in towns and cities. We need to ensure that access is fair and inclusive for everyone, while not damaging our fragile coastal environments."