Nature-based therapy for depression and anxiety
Official title: Can Nature-based Physical Activity Improve Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety?
Run by Kansas State University · NCT06858189 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether outdoor therapy sessions that encourage physical activity in nature can help people with depression and anxiety feel better compared to those who receive regular care.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Kansas State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Manhattan, Kansas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 28, 2025 |
| Main results expected | May 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | March 5, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06858189 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 diagnosed with a depressive or anxiety disorder who can safely engage in moderate physical activity.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are actively suicidal or planning to discontinue therapy in less than six months may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This project investigates the effects of a 10-week intervention that promotes nature-based physical activity on individuals with depression and anxiety. Ten licensed therapists will be trained to recruit clients who will participate in walk-and-talk therapy sessions outdoors, discussing strategies for engaging in outdoor activities. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group or a control group receiving usual care. The study aims to assess changes in mental health outcomes and physical activity levels among participants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve mental health outcomes for individuals suffering from depression and anxiety.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results with nature-based interventions for mental health, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 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 Criteria: * Planning to discontinue therapy in less than 6 months * Active suicidal ideation * Does not pass exercise risk screener
Where it's running
-
Kansas State University
Manhattan, Kansas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Emily L Mailey, PhD
- Email: emailey@ksu.edu
- Phone: 847-224-1199
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Digital storytelling-based psychoeducation to ease loneliness and boost self-efficacy in adults aged 65–74
The study tests whether a digital storytelling–based psychoeducation program can reduce loneliness and improve self-efficacy in adults 65 to 74 who participate in the program versus a comparison group.
-
Sleep Better, Live Better: a 12-week coaching program to help adults improve sleep and heart-brain health
This trial tests a 12-week, telephone- and text-based sleep coaching program for adults 25–65 with short sleep and higher cardiometabolic risk to see if it improves sleep and related behaviors.
-
Helping Men Care for Loved Ones: IN-HOME Outreach for Male Caregivers
This study tests whether outreach from IN-HOME-trained community health workers helps male caregivers improve their knowledge, skills, and confidence, and see if it boosts their health and daily functioning.
-
Nurse-led Integrated Home Health Service for Parents of Children Requiring Respiratory Support
This study tests whether a nurse-led home health service helps parents better manage their child’s respiratory symptoms at home.
-
Predicting Birth Type and Breastfeeding Success from Physical Fitness and Emotions in Late Pregnancy
Researchers are testing whether simple grip strength and chair stand tests, plus feelings about childbirth, can help predict delivery type and six-month breastfeeding success for women in their late pregnancy.
-
Hope-Focused Motivational Interviewing for Cancer Patients Receiving Radiotherapy
This trial tests whether four hope-focused motivational counseling sessions can boost hope, self-efficacy, and self-compassion in adults with cancer undergoing radiotherapy.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.