RESEARCH

Therapeutic Nature Activities: A Step Toward the Labor Market for Traumatized Refugees

This qualitative study found that therapeutic nature activities, like gardening, helped refugees in Denmark build vocational skills, foster personal growth, and cope with trauma, facilitating their integration into the labor market.

Program Types: Therapeutic, Social, Vocational

Population Groups: Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries, Immigrants/Refugees

Setting or Context: Natural Areas/Parks/Forest

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Stress Management, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Greater Job Readiness & Vocational Skills

Allied Profession Intersections: Social Work, Forest/Ecotherapy

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Edible Plant Gardening, Vocational Skill Development, Environmental Education, Mindfulness/Visualizations

Evidence Type: Case Studies, Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Standardized Assessment Tools

Access: Free

Print Form

Summary

This qualitative study explored the impact of therapeutic nature activities on refugees in Denmark, aiming to facilitate their integration into the labor market. The program involved activities such as gardening and animal care, designed to improve participants’ well-being and vocational skills. Data were collected through interviews at baseline, after 15 weeks, after 30 weeks, and six months post-intervention, focusing on their experiences, achieved competencies, and future prospects.

The results highlighted the importance of these activities in fostering personal growth, increasing vocational skills, and building trust. Participants reported that the activities helped them access positive memories, cope with trauma, and develop a sense of purpose. The study identified key themes such as overcoming hopelessness, reclaiming human value, and using horticultural activities as a tool for growth. It concluded that feeling safe, experiencing positive relationships, engaging in meaningful activities, and acquiring new skills are vital steps toward employment and education for traumatized refugees, though issues like loss of identity and acculturative stress need to be addressed.

Link

Poulsen, D.V., Pálsdóttir, A.M., Christensen, S.I. et al. (2020). Therapeutic nature activities: A step toward the labor market for traumatized refugees. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(20), 7542.

Other Recommended Research

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.