Nature walks can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression

Those suffering from a mental illness shouldn’t have to just grin and bear it. There are many different options for treatment.

Prescriptions, alternative medicine, diet, exercise. Different treatments work for different people, and there is no right or wrong way to survive each day.

One proven (and free) treatment is just to walk outside. Studies have shown that interacting with nature can improve cognition for individuals with depression and that proximity to green space has been associated with lower levels of stress.

This is what Caitlin Renton of West Bloomfield does to combat her anxiety.

A few years ago, Renton began taking nature walks on a regular basis after she realized it helped her get through her week.

"Taking a stroll through the woods calms my nerves, even on trails I've walked a million times," she said.

Kensington Metropark, 4570 Huron River Parkway, Milford, is one of Renton's favorite getaways.

"It's so big, so there are always new places to explore and I never get sick of it. I love seeing the sandhill cranes that are always there because they're not afraid of people, and the chipmunks will eat right out of your hand," she said.

"It calms me, being able to peacefully co-exist with the wild animals."

She said that animals, whether wild or pets, are wonderful therapy.

"When an animal like a duck or goose acknowledges me without being afraid, it puts a smile on my face," she said. "And, when I'm having a bad day, my cats and dog always cheer me up. Without a doubt, they know when I'm upset and they try to make me feel better."

Here are some other health benefits associated with going outside, according to research:

Improved attention span
Increased Vitamin D production
Lower heart rate
Boost in serotonin
Improved sleep

So take a page from Renton's book, and get outside!

"People who are suffering from anxiety could greatly benefit from taking nature walks because it can satisfy their curiosity and take their mind off things. Instead of nitpicking and obsessing over something that didn't go right, they might actually focus on the now."

Monica Drake

Monica's goal is to raise awareness about suicide and help erase the stigma associated with mental illness. In 2012, she won first place in News Enterprise Reporting by the Michigan Press Association for her series on suicide in the community, and in 2013, was named “Digital Innovator of the Year” by the Local Media Association. In 2019, she received the Ambassador Award from the suicide prevention nonprofit Six Feet Over. She started the blog Meant to Live to help others by sharing signs of depression, reasons to live, resources, suicide and bullying prevention groups, other people’s stories and memorials. She especially wants to show people that they are not alone.