5 Ways RVing Can Help Improve Mental Health

Posted on: March 8, 2023

The stresses of the pandemic, current economic conditions, and unprecedented rates of suicidal behavior (especially among young people and teens)¹ have made taking care of one’s own mental health more important than ever. And while some of the major benefits frequently touted about RVing include the ability to work remotely, wake up in a new location every few days, and enjoy nature, the lifestyle can also impact mental health for the better.

Here are just a few ways that RVing can have many positive effects on your mental health:

Reduced Stress

Managing home and work life without a break can take a toll on anyone. RVing can help get you out of your normal environment and routine and can help reduce the stresses of everyday life.

Boosted Confidence

In general, RVing is for everyone, but it does pose a challenge to newbies who’ve never driven, owned, or maintained a house on wheels. But with this challenge comes new situations and problems in which many people thrive. Sometimes a new challenge is all that’s needed to get out of a rut!

Improved Resiliency

That said, any seasoned RVer will tell you that sometimes the RV lifestyle isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. In fact, it can be unpredictable at times and requires RV enthusiasts to be flexible and adjust to the situation. For this reason, RVing can help those struggling with how to cope with uncertainty and change–they may experience some uncomfortable situations and need some problem solving skills to make it through the challenge, but ultimately, certain mental muscles and behaviors will be stretched and strengthened.

Increased Self-Discovery

RV road trips are fundamental to the American spirit and a journey of discovery. You can learn more about yourself by exploring new places, meeting new people and trying new things. Being exposed to different cultures and perspectives can help reframe your own perspective and worldview. Some easy ways to kickstart your self-discovery journey include visiting national parks and monuments, exploring historical sites and museums, volunteering for a cause or community, taking a scenic drive along a coast or mountain range, and joining an RV club or group to meet new people.

Decreased Risk for Depression

RVing allows you to get out in nature, sit around a campfire, go for hikes, and paddle a kayak, among a great many other activities. Exposure to natural light and fresh air while doing these activities can help reduce the risk for depression and other types of mental health challenges, such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD).²

Have you or a loved one experienced improved mental health from RVing? Let us know in the comments or contact us today!

¹ https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html

²^{https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/nature-and-mental-health/how-nature-benefits-mental-health/}