RESEARCH

“That Guy, Is He Really Sick at All?” An Analysis of How Veterans with PTSD Experience Nature-Based Therapy

This study demonstrates that nature-based therapy, including horticultural activities and therapeutic talks in a forest garden, can significantly improve the well-being of veterans with PTSD by alleviating physical symptoms, enhancing social connections, and fostering a new sense of identity and hope. The long-term positive effects suggest that NBT should be considered as a beneficial addition to conventional PTSD treatments for veterans.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Mental Health Challenges/Trauma, Military/Veterans

Setting or Context: Community Gardens

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Greater Sense of Purpose, Community Building

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Patient-Reported Outcomes

Research Source: Academic Journals

Access: Free

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Summary

This study investigates the experiences of veterans with PTSD participating in a ten-week nature-based therapy (NBT) program in a therapy forest garden. The NBT program included horticultural activities, body-awareness exercises, and individual therapeutic talks. Researchers conducted multiple interviews with the veterans over a year to understand how the program affected their daily lives and their management of PTSD symptoms. The study explored themes such as physical symptoms, relationships, identity building, and future outlook.

The study found that NBT helped veterans gain better control of their physical symptoms, improve their relationships with family and comrades, and construct new identities beyond their military service. The horticultural activities and being in nature contributed to a sense of calm, improved sleep, and reduced anxiety. The veterans also learned coping strategies, which allowed them to participate more actively in social situations and envision a more positive future. The research suggests that NBT could be a valuable complementary therapy for veterans with PTSD, particularly those who may find traditional therapies challenging or stigmatizing.

Link

Poulsen, D.V., Stigsdotter, U.K., & Davidsen, A.S. (2018). “That guy, Is he really sick at all?” An analysis of how veterans with PTSD experience nature-based therapy. Healthcare (Basel), 6(2), 64.

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