Pictured: Hikers take a break while enjoying nature in San Diego, California. Photo courtesy of County of San Diego.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, NRPA recently hosted a webinar, “Resilient Parks, Resilient People: Prioritizing Mental Health in Parks and Recreation.” Licensed clinical psychologist Jay Trambadia, PsyD, ABPP, led participants through ways to identify mental health concerns, how to embed coping strategies and wellness tips into the workplace, ways to lead and provide a supportive workplace culture, and developing healthy resources to benefit employee wellness. The session provided a space for park and recreation professionals to explore how to maintain mental health and well-being — personally, professionally and as community leaders.

Participants shared practical, heartfelt tips they’ve implemented in their agencies and teams to create healthier environments for themselves and those around them. Here's a look at the wisdom and ideas they offered:

1. Schedule Time for Self-Care—And Make It Okay for Others To Do the Same

“I require my staff to have 45 minutes of free time (‘Me Time’) on their calendars at least three times a week. This time is still considered work time.”

“Our fitness supervisor added employee-only workout classes, stretch time and meditation a few times a week for those who can join.”

Self-care isn't just encouraged — it's built into the schedule. For many professionals, formalizing this time helps protect it and sends a powerful message that well-being is part of the workday, not something you squeeze in on your own.

2. Lead With Empathy and Flexibility

“We have a ‘breathing room’ culture for staff on my team of 40. We’re approachable, and if someone is having a bad day, we let them leave early or take a break.”

“When a team member came to me burned out, we moved their schedule around for a week or two off and re-evaluated their role to find the cause.”

Recognizing when someone is struggling — and being willing to make changes — can help staff feel seen and supported, ultimately leading to more sustainable careers in parks and recreation.

3. Create Connection and Community Through Wellness

“We hosted a family night yoga class with our mentees and their families. We talked about burnout and taught breathing exercises. It was pretty cool!”

“We encourage staff to share 'Power of Parks' moments — like kids learning to swim or families enjoying a sunny day. It helps us stay connected to the good we create.”

These intentional moments of connection reinforce the impact of the work and remind teams why they do what they do.

4. Know Your Limits—And Support Others in Knowing Theirs

“Sometimes staff or participants forget we’re people too. I remind my coordinators: you’re not a therapist. We can help, but we also have to care for ourselves.”

“CLOSE YOUR DOOR — if you have one! That helps me reset.”

Boundaries are essential in people-first professions. Whether it’s setting realistic expectations, taking time to reset or recognizing when you're stretched too thin, honoring your limits helps preserve your ability to lead and serve.

5. Take a Step Back to Find Perspective

“I was a municipal park ranger for 10 years focused on homeless outreach and abating crime in parks. Burnout is easy, but I focused on the wins — connecting people to housing and creating safe spaces for all.”

“When I feel overwhelmed, I look at my to-do list and decide what’s not urgent, what I can ask for more time on, and what I can delegate.”

“I switch to a low-effort task or take a break from the computer.”

“Keeping my to-do list weekly helps me stress less.”

Reflection, prioritization and flexibility are simple but powerful tools for navigating tough days. Grounding yourself in what matters and what’s manageable helps prevent burnout and keep you moving forward.

You’re Not Alone

Mental health is a shared responsibility — and an ongoing practice. Whether you're a park director, recreation coordinator, ranger or front-desk staffer, your well-being matters. Thank you to all who shared their tips, practices and experiences during this important conversation.

Let’s continue supporting each other and building park and recreation cultures that center care, compassion and sustainability.

Learn more about how NRPA is celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month here.

Maureen Neumann (she/her) is a senior program manager at NRPA.

Charissa Hipp (she/her) is a marketing and engagement manager at NRPA.