Effectiveness of Nature Walks in Depressed Adults

Investigations of Immediate and Short-term Effects of Nature Walks on Stress and Depression-related Symptoms

Over the past few years, a growing number of campaigns from around the world, including Canada, are highlighting the positive impact of spending time in nature on well-¬being. Indeed, mounting evidence suggests that spending time with nature is associated with a myriad of affective and cognitive benefits. Surprisingly few studies to date have tested the assumption that walking in nature versus in urban settings could alleviate stress and depressive symptoms in clinically depressed adults.

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of walking in nature versus in urban settings to improve depression related symptoms and reduce stress. The trial initially included 2 primary outcomes: patients stress levels (salivary cortisol) and depression-related symptoms (eg, affect, rumination, executive functioning).

However, due to hygienic concerns in light of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the collection of saliva samples (and in turn, the measurement of stress levels via salivary cortisol) was removed from the study's procedure. The main outcome was changed to effects on positive and negative affect.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men and women aged between 18 and 65 years, inclusively;
• Ability to speak French or English;
• Diagnosis major depressive disorder (DSM-IV);

Exclusion Criteria:

• Acute psychotic symptoms;
• Acute suicidal intent (within 48 hours);
• Unable to walk for 60 min or serious medical reasons (e.g. major surgery)
• Heart condition as per history or detected on electrocardiogram