Mental Health Awareness Month: Nurturing Mental Well-Being with Walk & Talk Therapy and Nature

Written By Diana Lapp, LCSW

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of mental health and raise awareness about the challenges many face. It’s an opportunity to have open conversations about mental well-being and explore ways we can all prioritize our mental health. As someone who is passionate about helping others find healing and balance, I want to share some of the ways my practice supports individuals on their mental health journey, particularly through Walk & Talk Therapy and Nature Therapy.

The Power of Walk & Talk Therapy

For many, the idea of sitting in an office for therapy can feel intimidating or restrictive. Walk & Talk Therapy offers an alternative. By walking through nature while engaging in therapy, you not only receive the support you need but also get the added benefit of movement. Walking helps release serotonin, which naturally improves mood and focus, helping you relax and open up during sessions. It’s a unique way to approach therapy that allows for deeper reflection, clarity, and emotional healing—all while being outdoors.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, I encourage you to think about your own mental health journey. Whether you’re navigating life changes, anxiety, or self-doubt, Walk & Talk Therapy offers a supportive space to work through those challenges, connecting the power of movement with meaningful conversation.

Nature Therapy: Healing Through the Outdoors

Nature offers an abundance of mental health benefits. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Nature Therapy involves intentionally connecting with nature through hiking, walking, or simply enjoying green spaces. The natural world invites us to slow down, become more mindful, and find peace amidst life’s chaos.

Whether you’re walking along a trail, practicing mindfulness in the woods, or simply sitting under a tree, nature has a profound ability to ground us, reduce overthinking, and encourage personal healing. It’s a gentle reminder that we can find solace in the world around us and that we deserve to make time for our mental well-being.

A Holistic Approach to Mental Health

Mental health is about more than just therapy—it’s about the combination of mind, body, and spirit. Walk & Talk Therapy and Nature Therapy can be incredibly powerful tools for healing, but they work best when paired with other practices that support well-being, such as proper rest, healthy eating, and social connection.

As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, I encourage you to reflect on how you can integrate self-care into your routine. Whether it’s through therapy, spending time in nature, or simply pausing for a mindful moment, nurturing your mental health is essential to living a balanced, fulfilling life.

Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month: Get Involved

Mental Health Awareness Month is an important time to not only recognize the challenges but also celebrate progress, healing, and hope. Here’s how you can get involved:

  • Start the conversation: Check in with someone you care about and open up about mental health.

  • Join me for a Walk & Talk Therapy session to experience the benefits of walking and talking in nature.

  • Practice self-care: Spend time doing things that nurture your mind and body, such as hiking, journaling, or meditating.

  • Attend my community event on May 4th: I’m hosting a special event called Walk & Get Inked for Mental Health, where we’ll combine the healing power of nature with the art of tattooing in support of mental health. It’s a fun, unique way to raise awareness and promote healing. To sign up, click here.

  • Participate in NAMI Walks: A wonderful way to get involved is by joining NAMI Walks, a nationwide event to raise awareness and funds for mental health support. You can find more information and sign up here.

Schedule a Free Consultation

If you're considering therapy or simply want to learn more about my services, I offer a free consultation to discuss your needs and how my approach can support your mental health journey. To schedule your free consultation, simply click here.

Resources for Support:

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, there are many resources available. Here are some helpful hotlines and organizations that can provide support:

General Mental Health Support

Crisis Hotlines and Support

Supporting QTBIPOC Mental Health and Well-Being
Mental health and well-being are universal needs, but for QTBIPOC (Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals, accessing support can come with unique challenges. These communities often face compounded stigmas related to both mental health and their identities, creating a need for culturally competent and inclusive care.

To support QTBIPOC individuals, check out resources from the Human Rights Campaign: QTBIPOC Mental Health and Well-Being for helpful information. Additionally, BlackLine provides confidential support for Black, LGBTQ, and other marginalized communities. You can reach BlackLine at 1-800-604-5841 for crisis intervention, emotional support, or advocacy.

Important Facts from NAMI NJ

Mental illness is more common than many realize, affecting people of all ages, races, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Here are some key facts from NAMI NJ that highlight the importance of mental health awareness:

  • One in four American adults experiences an episode of mental illness each year.

  • Mental illness can affect anyone—our friends, family members, co-workers, and neighbors—whether they are diagnosed or undiagnosed.

  • Four million children and adolescents in the U.S. suffer from serious mental health disorders that significantly impact their ability to function at home, school, and in social situations.

  • Mental health disorders are the leading cause of disability in the U.S., surpassing even cancer and heart disease, according to the CDC.

Final Thoughts

Mental Health Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that mental health is just as vital as physical health. Whether you choose to engage in Walk & Talk Therapy, join me for a community event, or simply take a moment to reflect on your own mental well-being, this month is an opportunity to prioritize self-care and take steps toward healing.

Remember, you don’t have to go through your mental health journey alone. I’m here to support you every step of the way. Whether you're ready for therapy or simply looking to learn more, feel free to schedule your free consultation here. Let’s work together to build a stronger, healthier you.

Diana Lapp, LCSW

My name is Diana Lapp and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Jersey. I work with children and adolescents ranging from the ages of 11-18 years old who struggle with anxiety, depression, family and school conflicts as well as, transitioning into adulthood. I also support adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and life stressors. I assist both populations in learning coping skills to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life. 

https://www.innerstrengthcounselingservicesllc.com/
Next

Overcoming the ‘What-Ifs’: How Nature Helps You Reframe Self-Doubt