• Charles Sturt University researchers have identified the benefits of structured nature walks to improve chronic mental health conditions
• Mental health clinicians were trained on how to conduct structured nature walks with patients and assessed the initial impact
• The research assessed patient’s well-being, moods before and after the walks and overall improvements in mental health outcomes for people with severe mental health conditions 
• Findings highlight the importance of implementation factors, such as organisational readiness and facilitator training. 

Charles Sturt University researchers have taken the transformative benefits of nature for mental well-being to the next level by training clinicians in structured nature walks.

The mental health clinicians conducted structured nature walks with patients suffering from chronic mental illness and assessed the impacts.

Lead researcher at the Charles Sturt Rural Health Research Institute Professor Julaine Allan worked with mental health clinicians in a non-government organisation and public mental health clinic.

Professor Allan said the research focused on how structured Nature Walking Groups (NWGs) can be integrated into mental health services.

“Nature-based interventions are increasingly recognised for their potential to improve mental health,” Professor Allan said. “However, there is limited knowledge on how to effectively implement these programs within Australian mental health services.

“This study offers valuable insights into how structured nature engagement can benefit those with long-term mental health conditions and emphasises the need for careful planning and organisational support to ensure these programs are sustainable and accessible.”

The study was conducted at two mental health services in New South Wales, one in a community mental health service and the other in a public mental health service. This comparison allowed for insights into both NGO and government service environments.

It explored how spending time in nature with clinician-facilitated activities can support mental health recovery, while also assessing how these programs could be successfully implemented into mental health services.

Preliminary findings of the study include:

• Nature provides a calming and restorative environment that can help manage mental health;
• Social interaction in nature was viewed as instrumental in mental health recovery;
• Successful implementation requires careful planning, clear communication, and solutions for logistical challenges such as transport and group dynamics.

Professor Allan said the study occurred between May 2024 and April 2025.

“Participants attended weekly one-hour nature walks for 12 weeks, in conjunction with their usual treatment.

“Clinicians led a structured nature connection program, including two nature-focused routines per walk, and facilitators were trained to guide nature connection activities and highlight natural features during the walks.”

The study gathered data from both individuals and organisations. Researchers measured participant well-being, mood levels before and after walks, and connection to nature through surveys.

Participant views on the program were captured through interviews and observations.

Professor Allan said the feedback was very positive.

“The feedback from clinicians was very encouraging, with participants telling us they learned more about the benefits of nature for both their mental health and their patients,” she said.

A Nature Walking Group participant said, “It’s helped with confidence, and it’s helped with being in a better mood, and a better state of mind as well.”

The program’s impact continues to grow, with 30 mental health professionals from two more mental health services in NSW receiving training in early April 2025 to support the integration of nature-based interventions into everyday practice.

"The benefits of nature for mental health are well known, but integrating structured nature-based programs into clinical services is a crucial next step,” Professor Allan said.

“Our research highlights how guided Nature Walking Groups, alongside usual treatment, can support recovery for individuals with severe mental health conditions and provides a pathway for sustainable implementation in mental health care.”

This research is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.

ENDS