1
|
Radulescu D, Mihai FD, Trasca MET, Caluianu EI, Calafeteanu CDM, Radulescu PM, Mercut R, Ciupeanu-Calugaru ED, Marinescu GA, Siloşi CA, Nistor CCE, Danoiu S. Oxidative Stress in Military Missions-Impact and Management Strategies: A Narrative Analysis. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:567. [PMID: 38792589 PMCID: PMC11121804 DOI: 10.3390/life14050567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This narrative review comprehensively examines the impact of oxidative stress on military personnel, highlighting the crucial role of physical exercise and tailored diets, particularly the ketogenic diet, in minimizing this stress. Through a meticulous analysis of the recent literature, the study emphasizes how regular physical exercise not only enhances cardiovascular, cognitive, and musculoskeletal health but is also essential in neutralizing the effects of oxidative stress, thereby improving endurance and performance during long-term missions. Furthermore, the implementation of the ketogenic diet provides an efficient and consistent energy source through ketone bodies, tailored to the specific energy requirements of military activities, and significantly contributes to the reduction in reactive oxygen species production, thus protecting against cellular deterioration under extreme stress. The study also underlines the importance of integrating advanced technologies, such as wearable devices and smart sensors that allow for the precise and real-time monitoring of oxidative stress and physiological responses, thus facilitating the customization of training and nutritional regimes. Observations from this review emphasize significant variability among individuals in responses to oxidative stress, highlighting the need for a personalized approach in formulating intervention strategies. It is crucial to develop and implement well-monitored, personalized supplementation protocols to ensure that each member of the military personnel receives a regimen tailored to their specific needs, thereby maximizing the effectiveness of measures to combat oxidative stress. This analysis makes a valuable contribution to the specialized literature, proposing a detailed framework for addressing oxidative stress in the armed forces and opening new directions for future research with the aim of optimizing clinical practices and improving the health and performance of military personnel under stress and specific challenges of the military field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dumitru Radulescu
- Department of Surgery, The Military Emergency Clinical Hospital ‘Dr. Stefan Odobleja’ Craiova, 200749 Craiova, Romania; (D.R.); (E.-I.C.); (P.-M.R.); (G.-A.M.)
| | - Florina-Diana Mihai
- Doctoral School, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 2 Petru Rares Street, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | - Major Emil-Tiberius Trasca
- Department of Surgery, The Military Emergency Clinical Hospital ‘Dr. Stefan Odobleja’ Craiova, 200749 Craiova, Romania; (D.R.); (E.-I.C.); (P.-M.R.); (G.-A.M.)
| | - Elena-Irina Caluianu
- Department of Surgery, The Military Emergency Clinical Hospital ‘Dr. Stefan Odobleja’ Craiova, 200749 Craiova, Romania; (D.R.); (E.-I.C.); (P.-M.R.); (G.-A.M.)
| | - Captain Dan Marian Calafeteanu
- Department of Ortopedics, The Military Emergency Clinical Hospital ‘Dr. Stefan Odobleja’ Craiova, 200749 Craiova, Romania;
| | - Patricia-Mihaela Radulescu
- Department of Surgery, The Military Emergency Clinical Hospital ‘Dr. Stefan Odobleja’ Craiova, 200749 Craiova, Romania; (D.R.); (E.-I.C.); (P.-M.R.); (G.-A.M.)
| | - Razvan Mercut
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | | | - Georgiana-Andreea Marinescu
- Department of Surgery, The Military Emergency Clinical Hospital ‘Dr. Stefan Odobleja’ Craiova, 200749 Craiova, Romania; (D.R.); (E.-I.C.); (P.-M.R.); (G.-A.M.)
| | - Cristian-Adrian Siloşi
- Doctoral School, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 2 Petru Rares Street, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | | | - Suzana Danoiu
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kibler J, Ma M, Hrzich J, Choe J. Pilot Findings Indicate a Cognitive Behavioral Healthy Lifestyle Intervention for PTSD Improves Sleep and Physical Activity. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1565. [PMID: 38002526 PMCID: PMC10669697 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13111565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Research has indicated strong associations between post-traumatic stress and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) tend to show patterns of elevated CVD risk earlier in life than the general population. The need for developing effective interventions for CVD risk reduction in PTSD is increasingly evident. The purpose of the present pilot study was to examine the effects of a healthy lifestyle intervention that addresses CVD-related heath behaviors (physical activity, sleep, stress) among civilian adults with PTSD. Participants were randomized to the healthy lifestyle intervention condition or a wait-list control. A total of 22 women completed the protocol (11 per group). The mean age was 32 (SD ± 14). Evaluations were conducted before and after the 12-week intervention program in the experimental group, and 12 weeks apart for the control group, and included standardized self-report measures of sleep, physical activity, and general stress. The healthy lifestyle group showed an increase in the amount of sleep pre to post (mean of 1.2 h per night), which was significantly different to the control group, who had no change (p < 0.05; effect size = 1.41). Notable pre to post increases in physical activity were observed between the intervention group (mean increase = 115.8 min over 7 days) and control condition (mean = 4.5 min over 7 days); however, this effect was not significant in the small sample (effect size = 0.70). These preliminary findings suggest that a healthy lifestyle intervention is feasible and can produce desired changes in target behaviors/outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Kibler
- Department of Clinical and School Psychology, College of Psychology, Nova Southeastern University, 3300 S. University Dr., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA;
| | - Mindy Ma
- Department of Clinical and School Psychology, College of Psychology, Nova Southeastern University, 3300 S. University Dr., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA;
| | - Jacquelyn Hrzich
- Psychological Dimensions, 6595 S. Dayton St., Greenwood Village, CO 80111, USA;
| | - Jessica Choe
- James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, 13000 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sumner JA, Cleveland S, Chen T, Gradus JL. Psychological and biological mechanisms linking trauma with cardiovascular disease risk. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:25. [PMID: 36707505 PMCID: PMC9883529 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02330-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide, and experiences of psychological trauma have been associated with subsequent CVD onset. Identifying key pathways connecting trauma with CVD has the potential to inform more targeted screening and intervention efforts to offset elevated cardiovascular risk. In this narrative review, we summarize the evidence for key psychological and biological mechanisms linking experiences of trauma with CVD risk. Additionally, we describe various methodologies for measuring these mechanisms in an effort to inform future research related to potential pathways. With regard to mechanisms involving posttraumatic psychopathology, the vast majority of research on psychological distress after trauma and CVD has focused on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), even though posttraumatic psychopathology can manifest in other ways as well. Substantial evidence suggests that PTSD predicts the onset of a range of cardiovascular outcomes in trauma-exposed men and women, yet more research is needed to better understand posttraumatic psychopathology more comprehensively and how it may relate to CVD. Further, dysregulation of numerous biological systems may occur after trauma and in the presence of posttraumatic psychopathology; these processes of immune system dysregulation and elevated inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, renin-angiotensin system dysregulation, and accelerated biological aging may all contribute to subsequent cardiovascular risk, although more research on these pathways in the context of traumatic stress is needed. Given that many of these mechanisms are closely intertwined, future research using a systems biology approach may prove fruitful for elucidating how processes unfold to contribute to CVD after trauma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Sumner
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Shiloh Cleveland
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tiffany Chen
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jaimie L Gradus
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang Z, Jiang B, Wang X, Li Z, Wang D, Xue H, Wang D. Relationship between physical activity and individual mental health after traumatic events: a systematic review. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2205667. [PMID: 37134018 PMCID: PMC10158556 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2205667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Traumatic events can cause social tension, anxiety, panic and other psychological crises, and can even cause post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicide. Physical activity has a good role in promoting mental health, and has a great application prospect in individual psychological intervention after traumatic events. However, no systematic review of the relationship between physical activity and individual mental health after traumatic events affecting many people has been published so far, which makes it impossible for people to understand the research status in this field from a holistic perspective.Objective: This review explores the relationship between physical activity and individual psychology, physiology, subjective quality of life and well-being after traumatic events, so as to provide some valuable clues or enlightenment for individual psychological intervention after traumatic events.Method: Relevant literature was searched in five databases, summarised, sorted and studied.Results: Thirty-three study papers were included in this review, the main study findings include: (1) Physical activity is positively correlated with individual mental resilience and subjective well-being after traumatic events, and negatively correlated with anxiety, depression, tension and PTSD. (2) Individuals with higher levels of physical activity have better mental health status after traumatic events than those who do not regularly engage in physical activity. (3) Physical activity can promote sleep quality, self-efficacy, subjective quality of life and various physiological functions of those experiencing traumatic events. (4) Physical activity (including exercise) is regarded as one of the preferred nursing measures to buffer against mental stress and maintain physical and mental health for those experiencing traumatic events.Conclusion: The level of physical activity is positively correlated with individual physical and mental health before and after traumatic events. Physical activity can be used as one of the effective measures to improve individual mental health after traumatic events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- ZhiFeng Wang
- Department of Physical Education, Xi'an Polytechnic University, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Bing Jiang
- Department of Physical Education, Xi'an Polytechnic University, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingtong Wang
- Department of General Education, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Tai'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhixiang Li
- Department of Physical Education, Xi'an Polytechnic University, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongxu Wang
- Department of Physical Education, Xinyang University, Xinyang, People's Republic of China
| | - HaiHong Xue
- Department of Physical Education, Xi'an Polytechnic University, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongmei Wang
- College of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Tai'an, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zanbar L, Lev S, Faran Y. Can Physical, Psychological, and Social Vulnerabilities Predict Ageism? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:171. [PMID: 36612491 PMCID: PMC9819222 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Ageism can be expressed as the discrimination, social exclusion, and even abuse of older adults. The literature suggests that certain vulnerabilities could be risk factors affecting people's ageism. Based on the Social Identity Theory, the present study aimed to examine the association of physical/psychological and social vulnerabilities with ageism. The sample consisted of 200 Israelis from the general population who completed self-report questionnaires. Hierarchical regression indicated that low well-being, high post-traumatic distress, and limited social support were associated with ageism. Furthermore, the association of post-traumatic distress with ageism increased with age. The findings expand the knowledge of vulnerabilities as risk factors for ageism, perhaps reflecting its unconscious nature, and can assist in designing interventions for people interacting with older adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lea Zanbar
- School of Social Work, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel
- Faculty of Social Work, Ashkelon Academic College, Ashkelon 78211, Israel
| | - Sagit Lev
- School of Social Work, Bar Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel
| | - Yifat Faran
- Faculty of Social Work, Ashkelon Academic College, Ashkelon 78211, Israel
- Department of Special Education, Hemdat Hadarom College Sdot Hanegev Regional Council, Netivot 8771302, Israel
- Department of Gerontology, Ben Gurion University, Be’er Sheva 8410501, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Browne J, Morey MC, Beckham JC, Bosworth HB, Porter Starr KN, Bales CW, McDermott J, Sloane R, Gregg JJ, Hall KS. Diet quality and exercise in older veterans with PTSD: a pilot study. Transl Behav Med 2021; 11:2116-2122. [PMID: 34487181 PMCID: PMC8846334 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibab116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Older veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at increased risk of obesity and cardiometabolic disease. Physical activity and healthy eating are two behaviors that impact health, functional independence, and disease risk in later life, yet few studies have examined the relationship between PTSD and diet quality. This secondary analysis aimed to: (a) characterize the diet quality of older veterans with PTSD in comparison to U.S. dietary guidelines and (b) explore if participation in a supervised exercise intervention spurred simultaneous changes in dietary behavior. Diet quality was assessed with the Dietary Screener Questionnaire (DSQ), which measures daily intake of fiber, calcium, added sugar, whole grain, dairy, and fruits/vegetables/legumes. The sample included 54 military veterans ≥ 60 years old with PTSD who participated in a randomized controlled pilot trial comparing 12 weeks of supervised exercise (n = 36) to wait-list usual care (n = 18). The DSQ was administered at baseline and 12 weeks. Consumption of added sugar exceeded U.S. dietary guideline recommendations and consumption of whole grains, fruits/vegetables/legumes, fiber, calcium, and dairy fell short. Participation in the supervised exercise intervention was not associated with changes in diet quality. Results revealed that the diet quality of older veterans with PTSD is poor, and while the exercise intervention improved health through exercise, it did not make veterans any more likely to adopt a more healthful diet. Interventions targeting diet, or diet + exercise, are needed to manage the increased risk of obesity and cardiometabolic disease present in older veterans with PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Browne
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Miriam C Morey
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean C Beckham
- Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Hayden B Bosworth
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Health Services Research and Development Service, Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kathryn N Porter Starr
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Connie W Bales
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jessica McDermott
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Richard Sloane
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Gregg
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Mental and Behavioral Health Service, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Katherine S Hall
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Björkman F, Ekblom Ö. Physical Exercise as Treatment for PTSD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Mil Med 2021; 187:e1103-e1113. [PMID: 34850063 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usab497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a cluster of physical and psychiatric symptoms following military or civilian trauma. The effect of exercise on PTSD symptoms has previously been investigated in several studies. However, it has not been fully determined what type of exercise most impacts PTSD symptoms. The aim of the present study was to systematically review the effects of different types of exercise on PTSD symptom severity and symptoms of coexisting conditions in adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS Electronic searches were conducted in the databases PubMed, APA PsycInfo, and SportDiscus, from database inception up until February 1, 2021. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials published in English, participants having a PTSD diagnosis or clinically relevant symptoms, and participants randomly allocated to either a non-exercising control group or an exercise group. Data concerning the number of participants, age, exercise type and duration, PTSD symptom severity (primary outcome), and symptoms of coexisting conditions (secondary outcomes) were extracted. The subgroup analysis included high or low training dose, military trauma versus non-military trauma, the type of intervention (yoga versus other exercise), active or passive control condition, group training versus individual exercise, and study quality. The study quality and risk of bias were assessed using grading of recommendation assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE) guidelines. A meta-analysis was performed with a mixed-effects model and restricted maximum likelihood as model estimator, and effect size was calculated as the standardized difference in mean and 95% CI. RESULTS Eleven studies were included in the present review. Results showed a main random effect of exercise intervention (0.46; 95% CI: 0.18 to 0.74) and a borderline significant interaction between more voluminous (>20 hours in total) and less voluminous (≤20 hours in total) exercise interventions (P = .07). No significant findings from the subgroup analysis were reported. The secondary outcome analysis showed a small but significant effect of exercise on depressive symptoms (0.20, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.38), and a larger effect on sleep (0.51, 95% CI: 0.29 to 0.73). For substance use (alcohol and drugs combined) and quality of life, we found significant effects of 0.52 (95% CI: 0.06 to 0.98) and 0.51 (95% CI: 0.34 to 0.69), respectively. No significant effect was found for anxiety (0.18, 95% CI: -0.15 to 0.51), and no sign of publication bias was found. CONCLUSIONS Exercise can be an effective addition to PTSD treatment, and greater amounts of exercise may provide more benefits. However, as there were no differences found between exercise type, possibly due to the inclusion of a low number of studies using different methodologies, further research should aim to investigate the optimal type, dose, and duration of activity that are most beneficial to persons with PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frida Björkman
- Department of Physical Activity and Health, The Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, Stockholm 114 86, Sweden
| | - Örjan Ekblom
- Department of Physical Activity and Health, The Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, Stockholm 114 86, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Littman AJ, Bratman GN, Lehavot K, Engel CC, Fortney JC, Peterson A, Jones A, Klassen C, Brandon J, Frumkin H. Nature versus urban hiking for Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder: a pilot randomised trial conducted in the Pacific Northwest USA. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e051885. [PMID: 34556516 PMCID: PMC8461737 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate feasibility and acceptability of a group-based nature recreation intervention (nature hiking) and control condition (urban hiking) for military Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). DESIGN AND SETTING A pilot randomised controlled trial conducted in the US Pacific Northwest. PARTICIPANTS Veterans with PTSD due to any cause. INTERVENTIONS Twenty-six participants were randomised to a 12-week intervention involving either six nature hikes (n=13) or six urban hikes (n=13). PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Feasibility was assessed based on recruitment, retention and attendance. Questionnaires and postintervention qualitative interviews were conducted to explore intervention acceptability. Questionnaires assessing acceptability and outcomes planned for the future trial (eg, PTSD symptoms) were collected at baseline, 6 weeks, 12 weeks (immediately after the final hike) and 24 weeks follow-up. RESULTS Of 415 people assessed for eligibility/interest, 97 were interested and passed preliminary eligibility screening, and 26 were randomised. Mean completion of all questionnaires was 91% among those in the nature hiking group and 68% in those in the urban hiking group. Over the course of the intervention, participants in the nature and urban groups attended an average of 56% and 58%, respectively, of scheduled hikes. Acceptability of both urban and nature hikes was high; over 70% reported a positive rating (ie, good/excellent) for the study communication, as well as hike locations, distance and pace. Median PTSD symptom scores (PTSD Checklist-5) improved more at 12 weeks and 24 weeks among those in the nature versus urban hiking group. CONCLUSIONS This pilot study largely confirmed the feasibility and acceptability of nature hiking as a potential treatment for Veterans with PTSD. Adaptations will be needed to improve recruitment and increase hike attendance for a future randomised controlled trial to effectively test and isolate the ways in which nature contact, physical activity and social support conferred by the group impact outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03997344.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyson J Littman
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Seattle Epidemiologic Research and Information Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Gregory N Bratman
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Keren Lehavot
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Health Systems and Population Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Charles C Engel
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - John C Fortney
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alexander Peterson
- Seattle Epidemiologic Research and Information Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alex Jones
- Outdoors for All, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Carolyn Klassen
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Seattle Epidemiologic Research and Information Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Howard Frumkin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mottershead R, Ghisoni M. Horticultural therapy, nutrition and post-traumatic stress disorder in post-military veterans: developing non-pharmaceutical interventions to complement existing therapeutic approaches. F1000Res 2021; 10:885. [PMID: 34621518 PMCID: PMC8456374 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.70643.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-pharmaceutical interventions for veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder are becoming a more popular way to address some of the social and personal needs identified by this group. Horticultural therapy or growing and eating food together provides several ways to increase mood, improve nutritional status, reduce loneliness and reduce the physical health impacts of mental illnesses such as post-traumatic stress disorder. In this paper we will discuss some of the issues people living with post-traumatic stress disorder might face. We will also provide an overview of the therapeutic effects of these approaches and how they will be applied in a locally identified group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Mottershead
- Ras Al Khaimah College of Nursing, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, P.O.Box 11172, United Arab Emirates
| | - Marjorie Ghisoni
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Wales, LL57 2DG, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Browne J, Medenblik A, Pebole M, Gregg JJ, Hall KS. Qualitative Analysis of a Supervised Exercise Program for Older Veterans With PTSD. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2021; 29:565-572. [PMID: 33162307 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2020.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Older veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experience substantial physical and mental health challenges. Given the well-known and wide-reaching benefits of exercise, exploring the impact of interventions designed specifically for this population would be valuable. As such, the present study explored perspectives from older veterans with PTSD who participated in Warrior Wellness, a 12-week supervised exercise intervention designed for older veterans with PTSD. This study was aimed at evaluating 1) facilitators of engagement, 2) perceived benefits from the intervention, and 3) recommendations about possible modifications to the intervention. DESIGN Qualitative study. SETTING Face-to-face semistructured interviews conducted after the Warrior Wellness trial was completed. PARTICIPANTS Fifteen veterans (100% male, 93% African American or Black, 100% non-Hispanic or Latinx, average age = 68.7 years) who completed the Warrior Wellness exercise program. MEASUREMENTS Semistructured interviews were conducted using an interview guide that assessed veterans' experience in Warrior Wellness and recommendations for future intervention modifications. Interviews were subsequently transcribed and analyzed by thematic analysis. RESULTS Shared experience, program features, camaraderie during workouts, and accountability emerged as facilitators of engagement. Perceived benefits spanned physical health, mental health, and behavioral domains. Finally, veterans provided several suggestions for modifying the intervention such as increasing its duration, adding a nutritional component, and including significant others in enrollment. CONCLUSIONS This study offers valuable insights into the intervention and interpersonal factors that veterans view as important for their engagement in exercise, the perceived benefits of exercise, and the ways in which interventions designed for this population can be refined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Browne
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System (JB, MP, KH), Durham, NC
| | - Alyssa Medenblik
- Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee (AM), Knoxville, TN
| | - Michelle Pebole
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System (JB, MP, KH), Durham, NC; Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign (MP), Champaign, IL
| | - Jeffrey J Gregg
- Mental and Behavioral Health Service, Durham VA Health Care System (JJG), Durham, NC; Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine, Duke University (JJG, KH), Durham, NC
| | - Katherine S Hall
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System (JB, MP, KH), Durham, NC; Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine, Duke University (JJG, KH), Durham, NC; Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University (KH), Durham, NC.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Yao L, Fang H, Leng W, Li J, Chang J. Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Mental Health in Older Adults: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:748257. [PMID: 34867538 PMCID: PMC8634786 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.748257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The recommendation of exercise programs in the senior population may benefit inactive and sedentary individuals and improve and help to treat specific health conditions. The purpose of this review is to summarize the published evidence from RCT studies of aerobic exercise interventions for mental health in older adults over the last 20 years. Methods: A literature search was conducted using electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed/Medline, and ProQuest. Results: A total of 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. The subjects of these studies were aged 60 years or older and had various physical health statuses. In 15 studies, the mean effect size for the experimental outcome was 0.56 ± 0.39 (95%CI: 0.36-0.76). One-way ANOVA indicated no significant differences in the intervention duration [F (2,15) = 0.919, p = 0.420], subject category [F (2,15) = 0.046, p = 0.955], or measurement category [F (3,14) = 0.967, p = 0.436]. However, there were significant differences in exercise frequencies [F (2,15) = 6.03, p = 0.012]. Conclusion: The available evidence suggests that aerobic exercise is beneficial for improving the mental health of adults aged 60 years and older. The intervention effect can be achieved regardless of the type of subject and the duration of the intervention. Further, the present study indicates that low-frequency, long-term and regular aerobic exercise is more effective for older adults. Therefore, we recommend that older adults to exercise at a low frequency depending on their physical condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yao
- School of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Institute of Motor Quotient, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hanliu Fang
- Qingdao Mental Health Center, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wanchun Leng
- Qingdao Mental Health Center, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Junfeng Li
- Ministry of Sports, Shandong Technology and Business University, Yantai, China
| | - Jindong Chang
- School of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Institute of Motor Quotient, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|