Nature-based and Animal-assisted Interventions for Anxiety Relief and Hope Restoration Among Migrants in East Africa: a Critical Interdisciplinary Review
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Migration in East Africa is often accompanied by severe psychological challenges such as anxiety, trauma, and a loss of hope, yet conventional mental health interventions frequently remain inaccessible or culturally inappropriate. This review aims to address this gap by exploring the potential of nature-based interventions (NBIs) and animal-assisted therapy (AAT) as holistic and context-sensitive approaches to supporting migrant mental health in the region. Using an interdisciplinary approach, the review synthesizes findings from 17 empirical and theoretical studies across psychology, environmental studies, public health, and migration research. The analysis identified six interrelated themes: psychological renewal through nature, the therapeutic value of human–animal relationships, the influence of socio-ecological context, cultural and spiritual anchoring, environmental justice and accessibility, and the promise of integrated ecological–animal models. These findings reveal a pressing need for greater empirical focus on African contexts, where symbolic ties to land and animals are central to identity and healing. The review concludes by advocating for the inclusion of ecological and animal-assisted strategies in migrant mental health frameworks and offers recommendations for future research and policy development.
Source: Research
Institutions: University of the Free State, North-West University
Language: English
Topic: Urban Green Space and Health
Subfield: Urban Studies
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7225650244
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