While more than 40 million Americans suffer from anxiety disorders, the stresses of life amid the COVID-19 pandemic have boosted anxiety and depression to a crisis level. Meanwhile, finding effective ways to treat mental health issues is critical for long-term success in managing these conditions. Engaging With Nature While mental illness has been stigmatized, that stigma is dissipating as more people are engaged with the treatment of depression and anxiety through psychiatric and medical counseling. Because so many medications have side effects, it’s important to discover treatments that are effective, yet limit pharmaceutical dependency. Finding non-chemical ways to treat these conditions often leads to more long-term success. One scientifically proven chemical-free way to improve mental health through the reduction of anxiety and depression is by increasing outdoor green activities. Research shows that increased green activities—or living an active outdoor lifestyle—can reduce the amount of medication required to stabilize many mental health …