Association between urban green space use and physical, mental, and social well-being among adults in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Abstract Urban green spaces (UGS) play a crucial role in promoting healthy lifestyles in cities. This study aimed to characterize the habits of UGS use among adults in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and to analyze their association with physical, mental, and social well-being. A quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive, and exploratory study was conducted using a multivariate approach. The sample included 676 adults aged 18 to 65 years. Data collection instruments included a sociodemographic questionnaire and a UGS usage habits questionnaire, along with validated measures of physical well-being (self-rated general health), mental well-being (depression), and social well-being (social cohesion). The results revealed that 26.6% of participants reported not visiting UGS in the past month. Among users, physical exercise was the most common activity (32.3%). A positive association was found between regular UGS use and higher levels of physical and social well-being. These findings highlight the importance of UGS as supportive environments for health promotion in urban populations.