Posttraumatic growth (PTG) refers to the transformative process that can lead to positive changes after dealing with a traumatic event. Furthermore, different traumas have been found to lead to differing processes and outcomes from each other. This study is expanding on the Hefferon, Grealy, and Mutrie (2009) study in which they discovered that the PTG experience among people with life-threatening illnesses has unique, corporeal features. The experience of being severely injured has elements unique from other traumas due to its direct and substantial impact to the body. This investigation aims to advance the knowledge of the corporeal elements of PTG and PTG in general. This study reviewed and synthesized the qualitative data on the experience of PTG in people with severe physical injury. Thirteen journal articles-published before September 1, 2014, in PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, CINAHLPlus, and Academic Search Complete-were reviewed. Key themes included existential reflection, humanity, meaningful leisure engagement, and new abilities: awareness of physiological and psychological potential. Findings support that there are unique elements to the PTG experience in people with severe injuries. Additional research is needed to understand the trauma experiences among different injuries and the overall processes and outcomes of severe-injury-related trauma.

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Purpose: This study explores the role of scuba diving therapy in growth experiences of ex-servicemen. Previous research has focused on difficulties arising from re-entering civilian life after deployment. Known mental health challenges occurring after severe combat related trauma exposure include depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, less is known about the potential positive transformation which can occur when individuals navigate these challenges. Known facilitators of this positive transformation, often referred to as posttraumatic growth, are still sparse in this participant pool. Method: This study utilised an in-depth qualitative approach of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis utilizing semi-structured interviews. A homogeneous sample of five male British ex-service personnel with a diagnosis of PTSD who identified with posttraumatic growth was recruited. Results: All participants reported positive mental health benefits from diving with four themes emerging: Human Connection; Meaningful Leisure; Embodiment; and The Calm.Conclusions: Scuba diving appeared to afford instant access to lasting relief of anxiety, stress, and symptoms of PTSD and reduction of physical symptoms of their trauma connected to underwater weightlessness. The reduction of PTSD symptoms carved space for PTG, facilitated through a meaningful leisure environment with opportunities for human connection with individuals who had gone through similar experiences.