Exploring Changes in Depression and Meaning in Life through River Rafting for Veterans with PTSD

Abstract

As part of a larger research program examining the impacts of nature-based experiences on veterans with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, this study focused on changes in their depression and meaning in life after participating in a four-day river rafting experience. Results showed that there were statistically significant improvements over time for both depression scores and meaning in life scores. Results also indicated a weak statistically significant, negative association between depression and presence of meaning in life. The study’s results are useful for practitioners who may be considering nature-based programs for their clients, as well as researchers seeking to better understand the psychological health benefits of river rafting.

The relationship between nature exposure and depression among Chinese prisoners: a moderated mediation model

“…Some empirical evidence indicates that connectedness to nature may positively predict meaning in life ( Howell et al, 2012 ; Aruta, 2021 ). Moreover, Hooker et al (2022) found that nature-based experiences can improve meaning in life for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder. Therefore, nature exposure can be assumed to significantly increase individuals’ meaning in life.…”

“…Nature exposure can increase one’s sense of meaning in life ( Hooker et al, 2022 ); however, even the same natural environment will not have an equal positive effect on all individuals. Extensive evidence has shown that the efficacy of exposure to nature greatly depends on individual personality traits ( Takayama and Tsutsui, 2010 ; Song et al, 2013 ; Ambrey and Cartlidge, 2017 ; Feng et al, 2022 ).…”

The effectiveness of the National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic for veterans with probable posttraumatic stress disorder

“…Recent studies have continued to support the short-term positive effects of these programs on psychological and psychosocial functioning among veterans and service members with PTSD, but they suffer from similar methodological limitations (e.g., Townsend et al, 2018 ; Walter et al, 2019 ; Wheeler et al, 2020 ; Hooker et al, 2022 ). First, few studies used control groups, which limits understanding program impact compared with how participants might have fared without intervention.…”

“…Although there is a larger body of research supporting the immediate benefits of outdoor physical activities among broader populations (e.g., Thompson Coon et al, 2011 ; Walter et al, 2019 , 2021 ), the long-term impact of these programs remains unclear. Most studies have not examined outcomes beyond a few weeks after program conclusion, but more recent studies have extended follow-up assessments to 3–9 months (e.g., Townsend et al, 2018 ; Walter et al, 2019 ; Hooker et al, 2022 ). Though scant, longitudinal data suggest that many psychological health outcomes are not sustained over time (e.g., Townsend et al, 2018 ; Walter et al, 2019 ; Hooker et al, 2022 ).…”

“…Most studies have not examined outcomes beyond a few weeks after program conclusion, but more recent studies have extended follow-up assessments to 3–9 months (e.g., Townsend et al, 2018 ; Walter et al, 2019 ; Hooker et al, 2022 ). Though scant, longitudinal data suggest that many psychological health outcomes are not sustained over time (e.g., Townsend et al, 2018 ; Walter et al, 2019 ; Hooker et al, 2022 ). As such, it is critical that research improve upon the methodological limitations of the existing research to understand the outcomes of these programs and the duration of effects for veterans and service members with PTSD.…”