Why Teen Mental Health Needs Nature

Danae Jones

Today’s teenagers have grown up in a world unlike any previous generation. We are provided with phones, computers, social media, and easy access to the rest of the world through modern technology. This transforms how we communicate, learn, express ourselves, and spend our time. The increase of digital life results in an increased necessity for people to learn to balance technology and the real world. As teens’ lives become increasingly digital, the need to reconnect with nature is more important than ever.

Nowadays, teenagers are spending a significant amount of time online. Whether it’s scrolling on social media, texting, or playing video games, our lives have become intertwined with the fast-paced nature of technology. While there are benefits to this new behavior, there are also struggles. Our ability to communicate and interact with others is met with the inevitability of comparing ourselves and stressing to respond to notifications. The constant use of technology is increasing stress and anxiety among teenagers. The solution is not to separate ourselves from the digital world completely; it is to create a healthy balance of both worlds.

This balance comes from experiencing nature, which offers the opportunity to slow down that fast-paced digital world does not. From my experience serving on youth commission, a consistent suggestion is to organize opportunities for teens to connect with each other through being outside and disconnected. Whether it be walking in the park, sitting outside, or going for a hike, nature allows us to be in the present moment and is consistently found to be a relaxer that increases mental well-being. In our current world, teens are encapsulated by the swiftness of the internet and it has become a part of our lives. Despite its benefits, it reportedly increases stress among youth. The goal isn’t to eliminate technology in our lives, but reduce the negative impacts on mental health by accessing nature. This can be done through a short walk or even stepping outside to be present that can overall improve teen mental health. With the increased presence of technology in youth's daily life, nature is an essential way to improve teen well-being and balance their lives.

Sources:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10476631/

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00219266.2025.2605035#d1e133

Image credit: https://programsfortroubledteens.com/the-power-of-nature-4-benefits-of-outdoor-therapy-for-teens/