Nature walking groups

Enhancing Mental Health through nature

In 2017–18, Australia spent $9.9 billion on mental health. Given the high prevalence and cost, effective mental health interventions are crucial. Despite their cost-effectiveness and minimal invasiveness, nature-based interventions are not routinely offered in Australian mental health services.

About the project

The Nature Walking Groups (NWGs) study explores how structured, clinician-facilitated walks in nature can support individuals with severe mental health conditions. In collaboration with the University of Wollongong, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District and researchers at the Charles Sturt Rural Health Research Institute, this study investigates the benefits of nature-based interventions and how they can be successfully integrated into mental health services across Australia.

Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. By combining guided nature connection with mental health support, NWGs provide a unique, evidence-based approach to mental health recovery.

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

Our aim

Nature-based interventions are increasingly recognised for their potential to improve mental health, particularly for individuals with long-term conditions. However, there is limited research on how to implement these programs effectively within Australian mental health services.

This study aims to:

Assess the mental health benefits of structured NWGs for individuals with severe and persistent conditions.
Explore best practices for integrating NWGs into mental health services.
Support training and workforce development for mental health professionals delivering nature-based programs.

What was involved

The study took place over 12 months. Participants in the project were individuals receiving mental health support. All participants attended weekly one-hour nature walks for 12 weeks, alongside their usual treatment. Individuals also participated in clinician-led activities. Trained facilitators guided structured nature connection activities and highlighted natural features to encourage mindfulness and well-being.

Researchers measured participant well-being, mood levels before and after walks, and connection to nature. Interviews and observations captured personal experiences and organisational insights.

Our partners

This research has been conducted in partnership with mental health clinicians, service providers, and individuals accessing mental health support, ensuring the findings are relevant and applicable to real-world settings.

What have we learnt so far?

Nature provides a calming and restorative environment – Participants reported feeling more relaxed and less anxious after the walks.
Social connection supports mental health recovery – Engaging with others in a natural setting helped reduce isolation and build confidence.
Successful implementation requires planning – Facilitator training, clear communication, and solutions for transport and group dynamics are essential.

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

What's next?

Two more mental health services are set to receive training in April 2025 to integrate nature-based interventions into their programs.

The final data will be collected at the end of June 2025.

Findings from this study will contribute to:

Developing evidence-based guidelines for integrating NWGs into mental health care.

Training programs for mental health professionals.

Scaling up nature-based interventions within Australian health services.

By bridging the gap between research and practice, this project aims to create sustainable, nature-based mental health support options for those who need them most.

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