title: Enhancing the well-being of veterans using extended group-based nature  recreation experiences.
abstract: Physical and mental health issues associated with military service persist as challenges for many veterans. This study draws on existing research showing the value of engaging in nature-based recreation to examine the effects of such experiences on veterans specifically. Four organizations, offering 12 different programs each lasting 4–7 d, were included in the study. Ninety-eight veterans were recruited and surveyed 1 wk before, 1 wk after, and approximately 1 mo after participating in these extended group-based outdoor experiences. In addition to background information, the survey instrument assessed changes in psychological well-being, social functioning, and life outlook. The results showed significant improvements in each of these domains 1 wk after the outdoor experience. Some improvements persisted over the next month, but to a lesser degree. The positive changes were particularly strong for veterans who initially reported more severe ongoing health issues. Overall, the findings suggest that extended group-based nature recreation experiences that bring veterans together can have significant positive effects on veterans struggling with serious health problems.
authors.forename: Jason
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Duvall
authors.forename: Rachel
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Kaplan
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001290:Attitude; D005260:Female; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011998:Recreation / Q000523:psychology*; D058992:Social Participation / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D014728:Veterans / Q000523:psychology*; D058014:Veterans Health; D055815:Young Adult