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Parsonage-Harrison J, Birken M, Harley D, Dawes H, Eklund M. A scoping review of interventions using occupation to improve mental health or mental wellbeing in adolescent populations. Br J Occup Ther 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/03080226221110391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Occupation-based interventions could help to address a growing mental health crisis among young people and adolescents. To develop new interventions and avoid research waste, a review of the academic literature is needed that systematically identifies and describes interventions designed to improve the mental health and wellbeing of 11–25 year-olds. Aim The scoping review aims to systematically review the academic, literature to identify and describe key characteristics of intervention studies using occupation to improve adolescents’ and young people’s mental health and wellbeing, exploring the range of interventions, reviewing reporting quality and illuminating gaps for further research. Method An iteratively developed scoping review protocol informs a systematic database search and review of the literature. Core characteristics are extracted and described, using the TIDIER guidelines and the CASP assessment tool. Results Five occupational therapy-based interventions, and 69 other occupation-based studies representing a wide breadth of approaches, outcomes and settings were identified. Conclusions Robust development, testing and reporting of occupation-based and occupation-focused intervention studies to promote and support mental health and wellbeing in adolescents and young people are needed. Interventions should be co-designed, developmentally appropriate and scaffold development. However, better agreement is needed about core outcomes measurement in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary Birken
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - David Harley
- Occupational Therapist, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Helen Dawes
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Mona Eklund
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Sweden
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Evaluating the Mental-Health Positive Impacts of Agritourism; A Case Study from South Korea. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13168712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The stressful lifestyle of urban dwellers has increased the demand for green-based leisure activities; considering such growing demand, this paper investigated the potential mental health benefits of agritourism activities. The assessments were based on a questionnaire survey of two groups: visitors of agritourism sites around Seoul and a control group staying home (n = 200). In addition to measuring the participants’ well-being level and stress level, they were also asked to self-estimate their immediate mood after their activities of the day. The analysis was conducted with R version 4.1.0 to explore the potential relationships and interactions between the activity of the day, perceived psychological factors, and the immediate emotional outcomes. Findings reveal that visitors to the agritourism sites perceived considerable improvement in their immediate mood compared to the control group who stayed home. Results indicate a significant interaction between self-reported wellbeing and agritourism activities and a combined effect on improved mood. Therefore, agritourism can potentially be a resource for a positive mood boost and improved mental health. The suggested practical implications can be applied as strategies to evoke the feeling of more connection to the agritourism activities and raise awareness of potential mental health outcomes.
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Rezaei M, Emmanuel N, Kim J, Kim DH. Analyzing the Impact of Green Roof Functions on the Citizens' Mental Health in Metropolitan Cities. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 50:900-907. [PMID: 34183948 PMCID: PMC8223576 DOI: 10.18502/ijph.v50i5.6107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background: The fast-growing trend of urbanizations and the dwellers’ stressful lifestyle in megacities has led to several drawbacks from the mental health perspective. Provided that there is a significant association between the green environment and mental health, we investigated different functions of a green roof from two perspectives of well-being and environment. Methods: After investigating on different functions of the green roof and classifying them into two sections, a self questionnaire survey was conducted in May 2020 on 100 citizens of the Seoul metropolitan area after, South Korea visiting the green roof. They were asked to clarify their perception of the different functions of green roof gardens. The statistical analysis was performed to show the differences in perception and how each variable can contribute to such differences. Results: The results illustrated a high satisfaction rate among the visitors of green roofs. The perception of the well-being functions was higher than those of environmental functions. However, age group can alter the perception significantly, as the senior citizens significantly perceived the well-being functions. In contrast, the awareness of the environmental functions was higher among the younger participants. Conclusion: Providing practical information about the ideal functions of green roofs, this study offered helpful insight for the planners who focus on society’s general health and work in two different sections: developing the city landscape and mental health improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Rezaei
- Department of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Nyirumuringa Emmanuel
- Department of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Juyeon Kim
- Department of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Doo Hwan Kim
- Department of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Chan YT, Lau HY, Chan WY, Cheung CW, Lui W, Chane-Thu YSJ, Dai WL, To KC, Cheng HL. Adventure therapy for child, adolescent, and young adult cancer patients: a systematic review. Support Care Cancer 2020; 29:35-48. [PMID: 32720007 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05642-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This systematic review aimed to examine the evidence on adventure therapy (AT) intervention for child, adolescent, and young adult (AYA) cancer patients in order to inform the design of future research and clinical practice. METHODS This review included studies that tested the AT intervention among child and AYA cancer patients. Nine electronic databases (CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBase, Medline via EbscoHost, OpenGrey, PsycInfo, Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed) were searched for English-language published studies using a quasi-experimental design, one-group pre-test-post-test experimental study design, or randomized controlled trial (RCT) from 1981 to May 2020. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated using JBI Critical Appraisal Checklists for RCTs and for Quasi-Experimental Studies by two researchers independently. A narrative synthesis of intervention characteristics and related health-related outcomes was performed. RESULTS Eight papers from seven studies were included in the review, namely four RCTs, two quasi-experimental study papers, and two one-group pre-test-post-test experimental study papers. Studies varied in the components and duration of AT. Medium to high methodological quality of included studies was noted in all study designs. Results showed the positive effects of AT on the physical activity, fatigue, psychological distress, and quality of life of child and AYA cancer patients. CONCLUSION AT is a promising intervention that may improve a number of health-related outcomes in child and AYA cancer patients. Evidence-based AT interventions should be developed and incorporated as part of supportive care for the target population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Tung Chan
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Hoi Yee Lau
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Wai Yan Chan
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Chi Wo Cheung
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Winnie Lui
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | | | - Wen Lam Dai
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Ka Ching To
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Hui Lin Cheng
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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Cahill SM, Beisbier S. Occupational Therapy Practice Guidelines for Children and Youth Ages 5-21 Years. Am J Occup Ther 2020; 74:7404397010p1-7404397010p48. [PMID: 32602457 DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2020.744001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Demand is increasing for activity- and occupation-based interventions to address occupational performance and support maximal participation of children and youth. OBJECTIVE This Practice Guideline was developed to guide decision making and support best practices in service delivery for children and youth ages 5-21 yr at home, at school, and in the community. METHOD The results from three systematic reviews (SRs) of activity- and occupation-based interventions for children and youth ages 5-21 yr were reviewed, synthesized, and translated into recommendations for education, practice, and research. RESULTS One hundred eighty-five articles were included in the three SRs examining the evidence for interventions to promote activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, play and leisure, and rest and sleep; to improve mental health, positive behavior, and social participation; and to enhance learning, academic achievement, and successful participation in school. The reviews provide evidence for interventions associated with typical concerns addressed by occupational therapy practitioners. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS On the basis of the evidence, this guideline recommends that occupational therapy practitioners consistently collaborate with families and caregivers and provide services in the natural context of the desired occupation. The evidence also supports group service models and models that include peer mediation; these models can promote participation across areas of occupation. Skills-based training and therapeutic practice in the context of valued occupations are recommended over isolated sensorimotor approaches. Technology, manualized programs, and sports activities can be effective but should be evaluated and matched to age, diagnosis, and outcomes as guided by the evidence. WHAT THIS ARTICLE ADDS When guided by evidence, activity- and occupation-based interventions are effective in promoting participation and enhancing performance in valued occupations of children and youth ages 5-21 yr.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M Cahill
- Susan M. Cahill, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, is Associate Professor and Occupational Therapy Department Chair, MSOT Program, Lewis University, Romeoville, IL
| | - Stephanie Beisbier
- Stephanie Beisbier, OTD, OTR/L, is Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy Department, Mount Mary University, Milwaukee, WI;
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Cahill SM, Egan BE, Seber J. Activity- and Occupation-Based Interventions to Support Mental Health, Positive Behavior, and Social Participation for Children and Youth: A Systematic Review. Am J Occup Ther 2020; 74:7402180020p1-7402180020p28. [PMID: 32204773 DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2020.038687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Children and youth are often challenged to maintain well-being, positive behavior, and social participation. OBJECTIVE To identify evidence for occupational therapy interventions for children and youth with and at risk for mental health concerns. DATA SOURCES Articles published in English-language peer-reviewed journals between January 2010 and March 2017 identified through searches of MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, ERIC, OTseeker, and Cochrane databases. Study Selection and Data Collectio : The methodology in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses was used to complete the review. Of 5,310 articles screened by title and abstract, 357 were retrieved for full-text review, and 62 met inclusion criteria. Articles describing interventions that were activity or occupation based were included. Conference proceedings, non-peer reviewed publications, dissertations, theses, and presentations were excluded. FINDINGS Of the 62 studies included in the review, 20 (32%) were Level I studies, 22 (36%) were Level II studies, and 20 (32%) were Level III studies. Articles were categorized by type: outdoor camps, video and computer games, productive occupations and life skills, meditation, animal-assisted interventions, creative arts, play, sports, and yoga. Moderate to strong evidence supports the use of yoga and sports. Moderate-strength evidence supports the use of play and creative arts. Evidence for the use of animal-assisted interventions, meditation, video and computer games, and productive occupations was of low strength. CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE Substantial evidence exists to support the use of activity- and occupation-based interventions to address the mental health, behavioral, and social participation concerns of children and youth. Occupational therapy practitioners should match the desired outcome of therapy with the appropriate intervention to provide the best and most effective services to their clients. WHAT THIS ARTICLE ADDS This review provides additional support for the use of activity- and occupation-based interventions (i.e., those that involve active participation) to improve the behavior, social participation, and mental health of children and youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M Cahill
- Susan M. Cahill, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, is Associate Professor and Occupational Therapy Department Chair, MSOT Program, Lewis University, Romeoville, IL;
| | - Brad E Egan
- Brad E. Egan, OTD, PhD, CADC, OTR/L, is Associate Professor and Occupational Therapy Program Site Coordinator, Occupational Therapy Program, Lenoir-Rhyne University, Columbia, SC
| | - Joanna Seber
- Joanna Seber, OTD, OTR/L, is Adjunct Instructor, MSOT Program, Lewis University, Romeoville, IL. At the time of the study, she was a postprofessional OTD student (maiden name Swanton) at the University of Illinois at Chicago
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Moore CL, Van Vliet KJ. Women’s Experiences of Nature as a Pathway to Recovery From Sexual Assault. JOURNAL OF HUMANISTIC PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/0022167819847094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Given the serious challenges faced by female survivors of sexual assault, an understanding of how they heal after such an experience is vital. Yet little is known about how being in nature may be helpful in this regard. The purpose of this qualitative study was to develop an in-depth understanding of how nature helps women heal from sexual assault. A narrative analysis of semi-structured interview data provided by four female sexual assault survivors generated four main themes. These themes point to how nature served as a source of emotion regulation and spiritual connection, as well as how it facilitated greater acceptance and reduced dissociation. Themes also indicated reduced negative thinking and rumination, and increased attention to the here and now. Findings are contextualized within the existing literature on sexual assault, and implications for counselling and psychotherapeutic practice with survivors are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceri Lynn Moore
- Mental Health & Addiction Services, Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
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Mygind L, Kjeldsted E, Hartmeyer RD, Mygind E, Bølling M, Bentsen P. Immersive Nature-Experiences as Health Promotion Interventions for Healthy, Vulnerable, and Sick Populations? A Systematic Review and Appraisal of Controlled Studies. Front Psychol 2019; 10:943. [PMID: 31130890 PMCID: PMC6509207 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In this systematic review, we summarized and evaluated the evidence for effects of, and associations between, immersive nature-experience on mental, physical, and social health promotion outcomes. Immersive nature-experience was operationalized as non-competitive activities, both sedentary and active, occurring in natural environments removed from everyday environments. We defined health according to the World Health Organization's holistic and positive definition of health and included steady-state, intermediate, and health promotion outcomes. An electronic search was performed for Danish, English, German, Norwegian, and Swedish articles published between January 2004 and May 2017. Manual approaches, e.g., bibliographies from experts, supplemented the literature search. Data were extracted from 461 publications that met the inclusion criteria. To assess the status and quality of the evidence for health promotion effects of immersive nature-experience, we focused on the subset of studies based on controlled designs (n = 133). Outcome level quality of the evidence was assessed narratively. Interventions most often involved adventure-based activities, short-termed walking, and seated relaxation in natural environments. We found positive effects on a range of health promotion outcomes grouped under psychological wellbeing (n = 97; ≈55% positive; ≈13% mixed; ≈29% non-significant; 2% negative); psychosocial function (n = 67; ≈61% positive; ≈9% mixed; ≈30% non-significant); psychophysiological stress response (n = 50; ≈58% positive; ≈18% mixed; ≈24% non-significant), and cognitive performance (n = 36; ≈58% positive; ≈6% mixed; ≈33% non-significant; 3% negative); and social skills and relationships (n = 34; ≈70% positive; ≈7% mixed; ≈22% non-significant). Findings related to outcomes categorized under physical health, e.g., risk of cardiovascular disease, were less consistent (n = 51; ≈37% positive; ≈28% mixed; ≈35% non-significant). Across the types of interventions and outcomes, the quality of the evidence was deemed low and occasionally moderate. In the review, we identify, discuss, and present possible solutions to four core methodological challenges associated with investigating immersive nature-experience and health outcomes: (1) intervention and program complexity; (2) feasibility and desirability of randomization; (3) blinding of participants and researchers; and (4) transferability and generalizability. The results of the review have been published as a popular-scientific report and a scientific research overview, both in Danish language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lærke Mygind
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Gentofte, Denmark
| | | | | | - Erik Mygind
- Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mads Bølling
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Peter Bentsen
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Gentofte, Denmark
- Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Jones S, Sutton K, Isaacs A. Concepts, Practices and Advantages of Spirituality Among People with a Chronic Mental Illness in Melbourne. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2019; 58:343-355. [PMID: 30056485 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-018-0673-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
There is a relative paucity of literature in the field of spirituality among people who have a lived experience of severe mental illness from Australia. Sixteen individuals with a severe mental illness were interviewed on their experiences of spirituality. The three themes that emerged from the data were concepts of spirituality, benefits of intentional spiritual practices and perceived spiritual benefits of recreational pursuits and physical activity. This paper adds to the relatively sparse literature on spirituality among persons with a mental illness in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anton Isaacs
- School of Rural Health, Monash University, PO Box 424, Traralgon, VIC, 3844, Australia.
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Chao CC, Chen LH, Lin YC, Wang SH, Wu SH, Li WC, Huang KF, Chiu TF, Kuo IC. Impact of a 3-Day High-Altitude Trek on Xue Mountain (3886 m), Taiwan, on the Emotional States of Children: A Prospective Observational Study. High Alt Med Biol 2018; 20:28-34. [PMID: 30543474 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2018.0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Changes in emotions associated with mountain treks have rarely been reported. This study examined emotional state changes in sixth-grade elementary school students before and after a 3-day high-altitude mountain trek from the trailhead (2140 m) to Xue Mountain (3886 m) in Taiwan. METHODS In June 2011, 201 students participated in the trek. The round-trip distance was 21.8 km. The age, gender, blood group, and family configuration of the participants were documented before the trek. A 36-item short-form survey instrument, including the Mood and Anxiety Symptom Questionnaire and the Positive and Negative Affect Scale for Children, was used to evaluate the participants' emotional states (happiness, anticipation, sadness, and anger). The participants answered the questionnaires 1 month before and 1 week after the trek. A Likert scale was used to evaluate individual items (range 1-4; from strongly disagree to strongly agree). We calculated scores for each index before and after the trek. The incidence and presentation of acute mountain sickness (AMS) among the participants was also studied and published previously. RESULTS In total, 187 (112 boys and 75 girls) participants (mean age 11.9 ± 0.4 years) completed the trek and the survey. The sadness and anger scores (negative emotions) were significantly lower after than before the trek (39.5 vs. 36.6; p < 0.01). The happiness and anticipation scores (positive emotions) before and after the trek did not differ significantly (49.9 vs. 48.9; p = 0.11). No participant used AMS prophylaxis, while 78 participants met the AMS criteria. Negative emotions decreased more in those with AMS than without AMS (-4.6 vs. -1.8; p = 0.04), and the use of medications or acetazolamide did not alter the emotions. CONCLUSIONS A 3-day high-altitude mountain trek can reduce children's negative emotions. Negative emotions decreased more in those with AMS, whereas medications or acetazolamide did not alter their emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Chieh Chao
- 1 Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University , Taipei, Taiwan .,2 Department of Emergency Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital , Taipei, Taiwan .,3 Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University , Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lung Hung Chen
- 4 Department of Recreation and Leisure Industry Management, College of Management, National Taiwan Sport University , Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yin-Chou Lin
- 5 Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Taoyuan , Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Hao Wang
- 6 Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Chiayi , Chiayi, Taiwan .,7 Taiwan Wilderness Medical Association , New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Hao Wu
- 8 Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou , Taoyuan, Taiwan .,9 Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang Gung University College of Medicine , Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Cheng Li
- 8 Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou , Taoyuan, Taiwan .,10 Department of Health Management, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital , Xiamen, China
| | - Kuo-Feng Huang
- 7 Taiwan Wilderness Medical Association , New Taipei City, Taiwan .,11 Department of Physical Education, National Taitung University , Taitung, Taiwan .,12 Department of Emergency Medicine, West Garden Hospital , Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Te-Fa Chiu
- 13 Department of Emergency Medicine, China Medical University Hospital , Taichung, Taiwan .,14 School of Medicine, China Medical University , Taichung, Taiwan
| | - I-Chih Kuo
- 15 Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia , Vancouver, Canada
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Bowen DJ, Neill JT, Crisp SJR. Wilderness adventure therapy effects on the mental health of youth participants. EVALUATION AND PROGRAM PLANNING 2016; 58:49-59. [PMID: 27311098 DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2016.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Revised: 04/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Adventure therapy offers a prevention, early intervention, and treatment modality for people with behavioural, psychological, and psychosocial issues. It can appeal to youth-at-risk who are often less responsive to traditional psychotherapeutic interventions. This study evaluated Wilderness Adventure Therapy (WAT) outcomes based on participants' pre-program, post-program, and follow-up responses to self-report questionnaires. The sample consisted of 36 adolescent out-patients with mixed mental health issues who completed a 10-week, manualised WAT intervention. The overall short-term standardised mean effect size was small, positive, and statistically significant (0.26), with moderate, statistically significant improvements in psychological resilience and social self-esteem. Total short-term effects were within age-based adventure therapy meta-analytic benchmark 90% confidence intervals, except for the change in suicidality which was lower than the comparable benchmark. The short-term changes were retained at the three-month follow-up, except for family functioning (significant reduction) and suicidality (significant improvement). For participants in clinical ranges pre-program, there was a large, statistically significant reduction in depressive symptomology, and large to very large, statistically significant improvements in behavioural and emotional functioning. These changes were retained at the three-month follow-up. These findings indicate that WAT is as effective as traditional psychotherapy techniques for clinically symptomatic people. Future research utilising a comparison or wait-list control group, multiple sources of data, and a larger sample, could help to qualify and extend these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Bowen
- Centre for Applied Psychology, Locked Bag 1, University of Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
| | - James T Neill
- Centre for Applied Psychology, Locked Bag 1, University of Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
| | - Simon J R Crisp
- Neo Psychology, 439a Riversdale Road, Hawthorn East, Victoria, 3123, Australia.
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Mutz M, Müller J. Mental health benefits of outdoor adventures: Results from two pilot studies. J Adolesc 2016; 49:105-14. [PMID: 27038974 DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2016.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Revised: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This paper investigates potential mental health benefits of outdoor and adventure education programs. It is argued that experiences made in successful programs can increase self-efficacy, mindfulness and subjective well-being. Furthermore, programs may reduce feelings of time pressure and mental stress amongst participants. Evidence comes from two pilot studies: In the school project "Crossing the Alps" (Study 1), 14-year-old participants reported an increase in life satisfaction, mindfulness and a decrease in the PSQ Subscale 'demand' after a successful nine-day hike through the German, Austrian, and Italian Alps. In the university project "Friluftsliv" (Study 2) participants scored higher in life satisfaction, happiness, mindfulness, and self-efficacy and lower in perceived stress after having spent eight days in the wilderness of the Norwegian Hardangervidda region, miles away from the next locality. The findings suggest that outdoor education and wilderness programs can foster mental health in youths and young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Mutz
- Department of Sport Science, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen, Germany.
| | - Johannes Müller
- Department of Sport Science, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen, Germany
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Bowen DJ, Neill JT. Effects of the PCYC Catalyst outdoor adventure intervention program on youths' life skills, mental health, and delinquent behaviour. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADOLESCENCE AND YOUTH 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/02673843.2015.1027716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to evaluate a novel outdoor adventure camping program for individuals with mental illness. METHOD The program was developed by YMCA Victoria in partnership with Sport and Recreation Victoria, and mental health service agencies. Orygen Youth Health Research Centre conducted the program evaluation. One hundred and eight individuals from mental health services across Victoria participated in 12 camps. Five camps targeted young people between the ages of 18 and 25 years. Seven camps were run for adults 26 years and older. Participants were assessed at baseline, end of camp, and four weeks following the camp in terms of self-esteem, mastery, and social connectedness. Quality of life was assessed at baseline and four weeks post-camp. RESULTS Participants demonstrated significant improvements in mastery, self-esteem and social connectedness from baseline to end of the camp; however, these improvements were not sustained by the four-week follow-up. CONCLUSIONS We have demonstrated that utilizing the expertise of mental health services and a community recreation provider can benefit individuals experiencing mental illness. More research is required with respect to how to sustain these benefits over the longer term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sue Cotton
- Orygen Youth Health and Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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