Is Your "Silly Little Mental Health Walk" *Actually* Good for Your Mental Health?

I’m neither an exercise expert nor a mental health professional, but here’s what I do know: Nothing makes me feel better than a nice long walk.

Physically and mentally, a three-mile stroll while listening to a podcast feels like a reset. I come away from it feeling calmer, stronger, and more prepared to take on the day. So when I heard the term “mental health walk”, it felt right…ish.

Now, don’t get me wrong: The term definitely reeks of “social media wellness culture”, which is, of course, frequently not grounded in fact or expert opinion. But at the same time, walking really does help me (and so many others) feel amazing, emotionally, mentally, and physically.

So is there anything to this? According to Terri Bacow, Ph.D., a cognitive behavioral therapist, a mental health walk can feel great, but it’s not something we ought to suggest to someone who is struggling with a mental health condition.

“It is not a wise thing to suggest to someone who is struggling with depression, especially if it is suggested that going on this walk would be a ‘fix’,” she says. “These suggested lifestyle modifications are not evidence-based, have no research support, and are woefully inadequate for helping people with real mental health conditions.”

It’s important to remember that something that gives you a little mood boost isn’t necessarily a mental health strategy. And yes, some lifestyle choices can improve mental health, but if someone is truly dealing with a mental health condition, they should opt for treatment from a licensed mental health care provider who can point them towards the proper therapy, care plan, or medication.

And as for a mental health walk? It probably won’t hurt (and your step count will be better for it, of course). But, if you’re dealing with a true mental health condition, it’s likely not enough to truly help the issue at hand.

Ask Clara: Is walking good for your mental health?