Promoting Active Therapy: Path to Wellness
Can Nature-based Physical Activity Improve Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety?
Kansas State University
60 participants
Feb 28, 2025
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
This project will examine changes in depression and anxiety following a 10-week intervention promoting nature-based physical activity in mental health settings. We will recruit ten licensed therapists whose caseload includes adults with depression and anxiety. Following a training by our team, each participating therapist will recruit six clients, who will be randomly assigned to the intervention or control condition. Clients in the intervention condition will engage in walk-and-talk therapy outdoors during weekly sessions and discuss strategies for being active outdoors on their own. We will assess changes in depression, anxiety, and nature-based physical activity in both groups.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria4
- Current client of a participating therapist who has completed study training
- Diagnosed depressive or anxiety disorder
- Able to safely engage in moderate physical activity
- Willing to complete all study requirements
Exclusion Criteria3
- Planning to discontinue therapy in less than 6 months
- Active suicidal ideation
- Does not pass exercise risk screener
Interventions
During the 10-week intervention, clients and therapists will engage in walk-and-talk therapy outdoors in natural settings during weekly therapy sessions. In addition, therapists will work with clients to set realistic goals for increased nature-based physical activity outside of the therapy setting. Therapists will check in with clients weekly regarding their progress and assist with goal revision, barrier planning, and self-monitoring.
Locations(1)
View Full Details on ClinicalTrials.gov
For the most up-to-date information, visit the official listing.
NCT06858189