Benefits of a nature-based intervention for young people impacted by family mental illness

Children and adolescents who live with a family member with mental illness are at increased risk of developing mental health challenges themselves, and so there is a meaningful opportunity for early intervention to reduce this risk. We evaluated a nature-based intervention delivered through activity days and therapeutic camps run by the Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation. The program aimed to improve mental health literacy, help-seeking intentions, and psychological wellbeing in young people aged 8–18. A total of 138 participants completed pre- and post-intervention surveys assessing mental health knowledge, help-seeking intentions, connection to nature, and psychological wellbeing outcomes. While no statistically significant improvements were observed in mental health literacy or help-seeking intentions, scores were high overall. Notably, camp participants reported an increased likelihood of seeking help from any source post-camp. Significant increases in connection to nature were observed following activity days, and the majority of participants reported they experienced positive psychological benefits due to being in nature including restored attention, reduced stress, and improved wellbeing. Feedback about camp experiences indicated strong enjoyment, social connection, and a sense of respite. These findings suggest that nature-based early intervention programs may offer meaningful psychological and social benefits for at-risk youth.