As the world becomes increasingly digital, more and more people are spending less time outdoors. This trend is particularly evident among teenagers, many of whom spend most of their free time glued to screens. Unfortunately, this lack of exposure to nature can have negative consequences on mental health. Thankfully, there is a solution: wilderness therapy for teens.
This form of therapy involves taking troubled teens out of their everyday environment and immersing them in nature. The idea behind this approach is that being in nature can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Encourages Mindfulness
One of the primary benefits of spending time in nature is that it encourages mindfulness. When you’re out in the wilderness, there are no distractions, and you can focus fully on the present moment. This practice of mindfulness can be incredibly beneficial for teens who are struggling with anxiety or depression.
Reduces Stress
Being surrounded by nature can have a calming effect on the mind and body. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce levels of cortisol — the “stress hormone” — in the body. This reduction in stress can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Promotes Physical Activity
Wilderness therapy for teens often involves physical activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Engaging in physical activity has been shown to have many mental health benefits, including reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Provides a Sense of Community
Many teens who struggle with mental health issues feel isolated and alone. Wilderness therapy for teens provides an opportunity for these teens to connect with peers who are going through similar experiences. This sense of community can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide a support system for teens.
Offers a New Perspective
Finally, wilderness therapy for teens can provide a new perspective on life. Being immersed in nature can help teens gain a sense of clarity and perspective on their problems. This shift in perspective can be incredibly beneficial for teens who are struggling with mental health issues.
Wilderness therapy for teens is a powerful tool for improving mental health. By immersing troubled teens in nature, this form of therapy helps promote mindfulness, reduce stress, encourage physical activity, provide a sense of community, and offer a new perspective on life.
Contact Star Guides Wilderness Therapy to learn more
We are unique among therapeutic programs for teens because of our specific focus on diagnostic assessment and treatment of teen compulsive sexual and relational behavior issues offering intense guidance and therapy for young males, and their parents.
Unlike other teen programs that treat a broad range of substance and behavior issues in traditional settings, STAR Guides Wilderness Therapy provides a specialized “unplugged” environment to reset and re-balance the physical, mental and spiritual health of youth. Because of the very personal nature of their issues, under the guidance of highly trained therapists and professionals, we provide a setting where youth can feel safe and supported when working through sensitive pornography or sexual issues along with trauma, free of fear, embarrassment or shame.