Hiking in Nature for Those with Bipolar Disorder

Authors

  • Elizabeth Goldsby Ball State University School of Nursing
  • Allyson Utz Ball State University
  • Shannon Powers Ball State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TPE-2026-V83-I1-12880

Abstract

Throughout recorded human history there has been the conviction that connecting with the natural world improves wellbeing. Even with this knowledge, we are becoming more detached from nature both physically and psychologically. Although the psychological positive effect of being in nature is clearly seen in research, the concept of hiking in natural settings for those with bipolar disorder (BD) is not distinctly observed in the literature. It is a common notion that the main reason people hike is to immerse themselves in nature. For those with BD, the benefits of the leisure experience of hiking in nature offer a chance to escape the chaos of life’s challenges that one may face with having an often-debilitating mental illness. Other benefits of this leisure experience include physical activity, allowing opportunities for self-efficacy development, practicing mindfulness, having occasions to experience “awe”, and fortifying resilience. The goal of this paper is to better understand the impact of hiking in nature for those with the mental challenges of BD.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Published

2026-01-07

Issue

Vol. 83 No. 1 (2026)

Section

Articles

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