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Sutton RJ, Kay CWP, McKenna J, Kaiseler M. Sustained positive behaviour change of wounded, injured and sick UK military following an adaptive adventure sports and health coaching recovery course. BMJ Mil Health 2023; 169:499-504. [PMID: 34880099 PMCID: PMC10715534 DOI: 10.1136/bmjmilitary-2021-001784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A rising trend has occurred in the physical and mental health challenges faced by recovering UK service personnel. To support these individuals, bespoke inclusive multiactivity and adventurous training courses (MAC) have been developed. This study investigated the MAC's influence on participants' ability to sustain day-to-day changes that facilitate positive mental health and psychological need satisfaction. METHODS The 146 UK service personnel who participated in this study attended a five-day MAC 12 months ago. To investigate how the supportive experience influenced participants' lives, quantitative and qualitative data were collected via an online survey. Open-ended questioning and abductive analysis were conducted to understand mechanisms, influential aspects of the course and positive behaviour change. RESULTS Positive behaviour changes were reported by 74% of the respondents. These changes align with positive psychological well-being (98%). Impactful elements of the course experienced by participants mostly aligned with the three basic psychological needs of autonomy (34%), competence (36%) and relatedness (61%). CONCLUSIONS Recovery support programmes that encompass health coaching adventurous activities, such as the MAC, can initiate long-term positive behaviour change for recovering military personnel. In this specific context, the concurrence of the self-determination theory concepts that underpin the course delivery and participant outcomes is a powerful endorsement of implementation fidelity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - C W P Kay
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - J McKenna
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - M Kaiseler
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
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2
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Sun Q, Loveday M, Nwe S, Morris N, Boxall E. Green Social Prescribing in Practice: A Case Study of Walsall, UK. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6708. [PMID: 37681848 PMCID: PMC10487442 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20176708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents a case study of Green Social Prescribing (GSP) in Walsall, a medium-sized urban area located in the West Midlands, UK. GSP is a means of enabling health professionals to refer people to a range of local non-clinical nature-based activities, e.g., community gardening and conservation volunteering. As a new practice to address multiple challenges in health and sustainability, GSP has been promoted by the UK government and the NHS in the past few years. There is as yet limited evidence and knowledge about how this approach is implemented at a local level. This paper addresses this gap of knowledge, by exploring how GSP is implemented in Walsall as a case study. Based on extensive engagement and research activities with the local partners to collect data, this paper reveals the local contexts of GSP, the referral pathways, and people's lived experience, discussing the challenges, barriers, and opportunities in delivering GSP at the local level. This study suggests that a more collaborative and genuine place-based approach is essential, and alongside GSP, investment into infrastructure is needed to move the health paradigm further from 'prevention' to 'promotion' so that more people can benefit from what nature can offer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Sun
- School of Design, Royal College of Art, Kensington Gore, London SW7 2EU, UK; (M.L.)
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3
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Buckley RC, Cooper MA, Chauvenet ALM. Nature Prescriptions for Cardiovascular Health Could Learn From Outdoor Industry. Heart Lung Circ 2023; 32:e38. [PMID: 37169453 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ralf C Buckley
- School of Environment & Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Qld, Australia.
| | - Mary-Ann Cooper
- DUOC Professional Institute, Pontifical Catholic University, Santiago, Chile
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Huber D, Freidl J, Pichler C, Bischof M, Kiem M, Weisböck-Erdheim R, Squarra G, De Nigris V, Resnyak S, Neberich M, Bordin S, Zechner R, Hartl A. Long-Term Effects of Mountain Hiking vs. Forest Therapy on Physical and Mental Health of Couples: A Randomized Controlled Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20021469. [PMID: 36674227 PMCID: PMC9859399 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lifelong physical activity is related to longer health span, which is reflected at an individual level, and is of substantial socioeconomic relevance. Sedentary lifestyles, on the other hand, pose an increasingly major public health problem. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on activity levels and well-being. Previous research indicates that contact with nature might improve exercise levels as well as well-being. METHODS This randomized, controlled clinical trial (ANKER-study) investigated the effects of two types of nature-based therapies (forest therapy and mountain hiking) in couples (FTG: n = 23; HG: n = 22;) with a sedentary or inactive lifestyle on health-related quality of life, relationship quality and other psychological and physiological parameters. RESULTS The results of this study displayed that healthy and highly functioning women and men with sedentary lifestyles mentally benefit from contact with nature (quality of life, satisfaction with life, mood, internal and external health-related control beliefs). The gender-specific effect on women is most visible in the physiological outcomes (hemopoietic system, aerobic capacity, skeletal muscle mass and hydration) of mountain hiking. Men and women showed small improvements in blood pressure as a result of the interventions. CONCLUSIONS The ANKER-study provides a method for valid comparison of forest therapy interventions for the first time. Regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the nature-based intervention presented could offer a multimodal contribution to maintaining a more active lifestyle, further contact with nature that affects peoples physical as well as mental health, and an improvement in social interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Huber
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Johanna Freidl
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christina Pichler
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Michael Bischof
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Martin Kiem
- Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, 39010 Tisens, Italy
| | | | | | - Vincenzo De Nigris
- Institute of Sports Medicine, South Tyrol Health Authority, 39100 Bozen, Italy
| | - Stefan Resnyak
- Institute of Sports Medicine, South Tyrol Health Authority, 39100 Bozen, Italy
| | - Marcel Neberich
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Susanna Bordin
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - René Zechner
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Arnulf Hartl
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
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5
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Puyat JH, Mohebbian M, Gupta A, Ellis U, Ranote H, Almeida A, Ridgway L, Vila-Rodriguez F, Kazanjian A. Home-based and community-based activities that can improve mental wellness: a protocol for an umbrella review. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e065564. [PMID: 36585148 PMCID: PMC9809256 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mental disorders affect about 13% of the world's population. While evidence-based mental health treatments are available, a significant number of persons with mental illnesses are untreated or do not receive adequate mental healthcare due to various reasons, including costs, stigma and the desire to self-manage symptoms. In the past few years, there has been an increase in the body of evidence regarding leisure activities and mental wellness. However, there is currently no published overview of the state of the evidence on these activities and their potential preventive and therapeutic effects on mental health. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) review guidelines, an umbrella review will be undertaken to synthesise findings from systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the mental health benefits of home-based and community-based activities. MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Epistemonikos, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports will be searched for potentially relevant systematic reviews and meta-analyses published from January 1991 to present. Title/abstract screening, full-text review, data extraction and assessment of methodological quality will each be performed independently by two reviewers. A third review author will be available to resolve discrepancies in any of the review tasks. To assess the quality of potentially eligible reviews, the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses will be used. Findings will be presented in table form and will be summarised by study population, type of home-based or community-based activity or intervention, and type of mental health outcomes. Overall assessment of the strength of existing evidence from eligible systematic reviews will be provided following the grading of recommendation, assessment, development and evaluation approach. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION No ethical approval is required. Results of this umbrella review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021266989.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph H Puyat
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mana Mohebbian
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Aanchel Gupta
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ursula Ellis
- Woodward Library, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Harmanpreet Ranote
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alberto Almeida
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lisa Ridgway
- BC Support Unit, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Fidel Vila-Rodriguez
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Serrat M, Ferrés S, Auer W, Almirall M, Lluch E, D’Amico F, Maes M, Lorente S, Navarrete J, Montero-Marín J, Neblett R, Nijs J, Borràs X, Luciano JV, Feliu-Soler A. Effectiveness, cost-utility and physiological underpinnings of the FIBROWALK multicomponent therapy in online and outdoor format in individuals with fibromyalgia: Study protocol of a randomized, controlled trial (On&Out study). Front Physiol 2022; 13:1046613. [DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1046613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The On&Out study is aimed at assessing the effectiveness, cost-utility and physiological underpinnings of the FIBROWALK multicomponent intervention conducted in two different settings: online (FIBRO-On) or outdoors (FIBRO-Out). Both interventions have proved to be efficacious in the short-term but there is no study assessing their comparative effectiveness nor their long-term effects. For the first time, this study will also evaluate the cost-utility (6-month time-horizon) and the effects on immune-inflammatory biomarkers and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels of both interventions. The objectives of this 6-month, randomized, controlled trial (RCT) are 1) to examine the effectiveness and cost-utility of adding FIBRO-On or FIBRO-Out to Treatment-As-Usual (TAU) for individuals with fibromyalgia (FM); 2) to identify pre–post differences in blood biomarker levels in the three study arms and 3) to analyze the role of process variables as mediators of 6-month follow-up clinical outcomes.Methods and analysis: Participants will be 225 individuals with FM recruited at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital (Barcelona, Spain), randomly allocated to one of the three study arms: TAU vs. TAU + FIBRO-On vs. TAU + FIBRO-Out. A comprehensive assessment to collect functional impairment, pain, fatigue, depressive and anxiety symptoms, perceived stress, central sensitization, physical function, sleep quality, perceived cognitive dysfunction, kinesiophobia, pain catastrophizing, psychological inflexibility in pain and pain knowledge will be conducted pre-intervention, at 6 weeks, post-intervention (12 weeks), and at 6-month follow-up. Changes in immune-inflammatory biomarkers [i.e., IL-6, CXCL8, IL-17A, IL-4, IL-10, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)] and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor will be evaluated in 40 participants in each treatment arm (total n = 120) at pre- and post-treatment. Quality of life and direct and indirect costs will be evaluated at baseline and at 6-month follow-up. Linear mixed-effects regression models using restricted maximum likelihood, mediational models and a full economic evaluation applying bootstrapping techniques, acceptability curves and sensitivity analyses will be computed.Ethics and dissemination: This study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Vall d’Hebron Institute of Research. The results will be actively disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, social media and various community engagement activities. Trial registration number NCT05377567 (clinicaltrials.gov).
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Pettitt RM, Brown EA, Delashmitt JC, Pizzo MN. The Management of Anxiety and Depression in Pediatrics. Cureus 2022; 14:e30231. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Noushad S, Ansari B, Ahmed S. Effect of nature-based physical activity on post-traumatic growth among healthcare providers with post-traumatic stress. Stress Health 2022; 38:813-826. [PMID: 35191173 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this randomized control trial was to observe the effect of nature-based physical activity in achieving post traumatic growth and to estimate the combined effect of nature and physical activity on the psychophysiological outcomes. A 3-month therapy was provided to participants meeting eligibility criteria to receive the walk-in nature (experimental group) or sit-in nature (control group) in the 1:1 ratio. At baseline and 3-month follow-up, participants were assessed with Trauma Symptom Checklist 40, Traumatic Stress Scale, Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), Cortisol, C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Brain-Derived Neurotropic Factor (BDNF) and heart rate variability. There was a significant effect of nature-based physical activity on traumatic stress and post-traumatic growth in comparison with the sit-in control. A significant post-interventional difference was observed in the mean PTGI score [F = 5.412, p = 0.022] between the experimental and control groups after 3 months of intervention. All the biochemical estimates, including CRP, BDNF, IL-6, and cortisol levels, were significantly altered in both post-intervention study groups (p < 0.01). Taken together, these results show that nature-based physical activity significantly improves psychophysiological outcomes induced as a result of post-traumatic growth and also reduces traumatic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamoon Noushad
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan.,Department of Physiology, Psychophysiology Research Lab, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Basit Ansari
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sadaf Ahmed
- Department of Physiology, Psychophysiology Research Lab, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
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Short-Term Effects of Forest Therapy on Mood States: A Pilot Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18189509. [PMID: 34574446 PMCID: PMC8470271 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Immersion in forest environments was shown to produce beneficial effects to human health, in particular psychophysical relaxation, leading to its growing recognition as a form of integrative medicine. However, limited evidence exists about the statistical significance of the effects and their association with external and environmental variables and personal characteristics. This experimental study aimed to substantiate the very concept of forest therapy by means of the analysis of the significance of its effects on the mood states of anxiety, depression, anger and confusion. Seven forest therapy sessions were performed in remote areas and a control one in an urban park, with participants allowed to attend only one session, resulting in 162 psychological self-assessment questionnaires administered before and after each session. Meteorological comfort, the concentration of volatile organic compounds in the forest atmosphere and environmental coherence were identified as likely important external and environmental variables. Under certain conditions, forest therapy sessions performed in remote sites were shown to outperform the control session, at least for anxiety, anger and confusion. A quantitative analysis of the association of the outcomes with personal sociodemographic characteristics revealed that only sporting habits and age were significantly associated with the outcomes for certain psychological domains.
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Haid M, Nöhammer E, Albrecht JN, Plaikner A, Stummer H, Heimerl P. Health Promotion as a Motivational Factor in Alpine Cycling. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:2321. [PMID: 33652985 PMCID: PMC7967693 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The present study examines motives for cycling in the alpine region and focuses on the relative importance of health promotion with respect to other motives. Furthermore, the influences of person-specific characteristics on the rank of the motives are examined, and possibilities for advertising bike tourism based on these motives and characteristics are derived. By applying a quantitative approach, a total of 175 cyclists were surveyed using questionnaires on person-specific characteristics, motives, and their relevance for alpine cycling. Data analysis revealed that health promotion is the most important motive for alpine cycling after fun and action as well as nature experience. Further health-related motives such as stress reduction are also perceived as important. The social component, on the other hand, was given the least priority. The results also showed that person-specific characteristics influence the relative importance of motives. For example, elderly persons and people with children perceive the motive of health promotion as the most important. The study shows that the health-promoting effect of alpine cycling is noticed and may be further encouraged. This study demonstrates that alpine cyclists are a heterogeneous group and that health benefits are perceived by various sub-groups therein. Therefore, any marketing for alpine cycling needs to reflect the diversity of cyclists, and approaches need to be adapted according to the respective target group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Haid
- Division for Management in Health and Sport Tourism, UMIT Tirol—Private University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, 6060 Hall in Tirol, Austria;
| | - Elisabeth Nöhammer
- Institute for Management and Economics in Healthcare, UMIT Tirol—Private University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, 6060 Hall in Tirol, Austria; (E.N.); (H.S.)
| | - Julia N. Albrecht
- Department of Tourism, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand;
| | - Alexander Plaikner
- Department of Strategic Management, Marketing and Tourism, University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Harald Stummer
- Institute for Management and Economics in Healthcare, UMIT Tirol—Private University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, 6060 Hall in Tirol, Austria; (E.N.); (H.S.)
| | - Peter Heimerl
- Division for Management in Health and Sport Tourism, UMIT Tirol—Private University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, 6060 Hall in Tirol, Austria;
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Buckley R, Zhong L, Martin S. Mental health key to tourism infrastructure in China's new megapark. TOURISM MANAGEMENT 2021; 82:104169. [PMID: 32834313 PMCID: PMC7399666 DOI: 10.1016/j.tourman.2020.104169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The global economic value of parks through improved mental health of tourists has been estimated at about ten times greater than direct park tourism expenditure. The Chinese term for this health services value is jing hua xin ling, psychological destressing. Here we present the first case where optimal tourist infrastructure is influenced by including mental health. Using a multi-stage, cross-lingual, differential stakeholder method, we analyse conflicts between road- and roadless-access tourism in the very large new Sanjiangyuan National Park, Qinghai, which offers jing hua xin ling to domestic tourists from eastern-seaboard cities. This provides a powerful tourism attraction, and hence economic opportunity, for the region around the park. If these mental health aspects are included, together with their direct and indirect consequences for tourism, then roadlessness is preferable to new roads. Similar infrastructure conflicts occur for park tourism worldwide, and jing hua xin ling can provide a global theoretical framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Buckley
- Institute for Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China
- International Chair in Ecotourism Research (Emeritus), Griffith University, Australia
| | - Linsheng Zhong
- Institute for Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China
| | - Steve Martin
- Former Director, Grand Canyon National Park, US National Parks Service, USA
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Wheeler M, Cooper NR, Andrews L, Hacker Hughes J, Juanchich M, Rakow T, Orbell S. Outdoor recreational activity experiences improve psychological wellbeing of military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder: Positive findings from a pilot study and a randomised controlled trial. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241763. [PMID: 33237906 PMCID: PMC7688151 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to the natural environment is increasingly considered to benefit psychological health. Recent reports in the literature also suggest that outdoor exposure that includes recreational pursuits such as surfing or fishing coupled with opportunities for social interaction with peers may be beneficial to Armed Forces Veterans experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Two studies were conducted to evaluate this possibility. In particular, these studies aimed to test the hypothesis that a brief group outdoor activity would decrease participants’ symptoms as assessed by established measures of PTSD, depression, anxiety and perceived stress, and increase participants’ sense of general social functioning and psychological growth. Experiment one employed a repeated measures design in which UK men and women military veterans with PTSD (N = 30) participated in a group outdoor activity (angling, equine care, or archery and falconry combined). Psychological measures were taken at 2 weeks prior, 2 weeks post, and at 4 month follow up. We obtained a significant within participant main effect indicating significant reduction in PTSD symptoms. Experiment two was a waitlist controlled randomised experiment employing an angling experience (N = 18) and 2 week follow up. In experiment 2 the predicted interaction of Group (Experimental vs. Waitlist Control) X Time (2 weeks pre vs. 2 weeks post) was obtained indicating that the experience resulted in significant reduction in PTSD symptoms relative to waitlist controls. The effect size was large. Additional analyses confirmed that the observed effects might also be considered clinically significant and reliable. In sum, peer outdoor experiences are beneficial and offer potential to complement existing provision for military veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Wheeler
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas R. Cooper
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Leanne Andrews
- Department of Health and Social Care, University of Essex, Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom
| | - Jamie Hacker Hughes
- Northern Hub for Veterans and Families Research, University of Northumbria, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Marie Juanchich
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Rakow
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience; King’s College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sheina Orbell
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom
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Occupational stress management in the legal profession: Development, validation, and assessment of a stress‐management instrument. AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/ajpy.12244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Buckley R, Westaway D. Mental health rescue effects of women's outdoor tourism: A role in COVID-19 recovery. ANNALS OF TOURISM RESEARCH 2020; 85:103041. [PMID: 33100433 PMCID: PMC7575266 DOI: 10.1016/j.annals.2020.103041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Mental and social health outcomes from a portfolio of women's outdoor tourism products, with ~100,000 clients, are analysed using a catalysed netnography of >1000 social media posts. Entirely novel outcomes include: psychological rescue; recognition of a previously missing life component, and flow-on effects to family members. Outcomes reported previously for extreme sports, but not previously for hiking in nature, include psychological transformation. Outcomes also identified previously include: happiness, gratitude, relaxation, clarity and insights, nature appreciation, challenge and capability, and companionship and community effects. Commercial outdoor tourism enterprises can contribute powerfully to the wellbeing of women and families. This will be especially valuable for mental health recovery, following deterioration during COVID-19 coronavirus lockdowns worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Buckley
- International Chair in Ecotourism Research (Emeritus), Griffith University, 4222, Australia
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Buckley R, Brough P, Hague L, Chauvenet A, Fleming C, Roche E, Sofija E, Harris N. Economic value of protected areas via visitor mental health. Nat Commun 2019; 10:5005. [PMID: 31719526 PMCID: PMC6851373 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-12631-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluate methods to calculate the economic value of protected areas derived from the improved mental health of visitors. A conservative global estimate using quality-adjusted life years, a standard measure in health economics, is US$6 trillion p.a. This is an order of magnitude greater than the global value of protected area tourism, and two to three orders greater than global aggregate protected area management agency budgets. Future research should: refine this estimate using more precise methods; consider interactions between health and conservation policies and budgets at national scales; and examine links between personalities and protected area experiences at individual scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Buckley
- Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia, 4222.
| | - Paula Brough
- Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia, 4222
| | - Leah Hague
- Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia, 4222
| | | | - Chris Fleming
- Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia, 4222
| | - Elisha Roche
- Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia, 4222
| | | | - Neil Harris
- Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia, 4222
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Greer M, Vin-Raviv N. Outdoor-Based Therapeutic Recreation Programs Among Military Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Assessing the Evidence. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/21635781.2018.1543063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Greer
- School of Social Work, College of Health and Human Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Neomi Vin-Raviv
- School of Social Work, College of Health and Human Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
- University of Northern Colorado Cancer Rehabilitation Institute, School of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, Colorado
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Bammann K, Drell C, Lübs LL, Stalling I. Cluster-randomised trial on participatory community-based outdoor physical activity promotion programs in adults aged 65-75 years in Germany: protocol of the OUTDOOR ACTIVE intervention trial. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:1197. [PMID: 30352580 PMCID: PMC6199784 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-6124-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite its well-known benefits for health and well-being physical activity levels are insufficient and declining with age in Germany. Physical activity promotion programs for older adults are often not successful, one reason is insufficient relevance of intervention measures for the study population. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) is a possible key strategy for tailoring more meaningful intervention programs to a specific community. However, evidence for the effectiveness of CBPR in the general population is scarce. This study aims to formally evaluate the efficacy of a CBPR approach for developing and implementing an outdoor physical activity program for older adults. METHODS/DESIGN The OUTDOOR ACTIVE intervention trial is a cluster-randomised intervention study carried out in a random sample of eight subdistricts in the city of Bremen, Germany. The eight subdistricts are grouped into four homogenous pairs with regard to socioeconomic level and land use mix of the subdistrict. Within the pairs, the subdistricts are assigned randomly to the two study arms: participatory development and implementation of a community-based program to promote outdoor physical activity (intervention) versus no intervention (controls). For evaluation, a survey is carried out before (baseline) and after (follow-up) the intervention period. The measurements include 7-day accelerometer measurement, physical fitness test, blood pressure, basic anthropometry, and self-administered questionnaire. DISCUSSION The OUTDOOR ACTIVE intervention trial will provide detailed information on PA intervention for older adults in an urban setting. Through the participatory nature of the study it will provide valuable insights into drivers and barriers to PA in this group, and it will inform policy makers and other stakeholders how to benefit from the results. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00015117 (Date of registration 17-07-2018).
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Bammann
- Institute for Public Health and Nursing Sciences (IPP), University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Carina Drell
- Institute for Public Health and Nursing Sciences (IPP), University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Lena Lotte Lübs
- Institute for Public Health and Nursing Sciences (IPP), University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Imke Stalling
- Institute for Public Health and Nursing Sciences (IPP), University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
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