RESEARCH

Whatever Happened to the Soldiers? Nature-Assisted Therapies for Veterans Diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Literature Review

Nature-assisted therapy programs for veterans with PTSD are widely used and consistently report positive effects such as reduced PTSD symptoms and improved well-being, with no reported negative outcomes. However, most evidence comes from qualitative studies, and more rigorous research is needed to confirm these benefits.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Military/Veterans

Setting or Context: Hospitals/Clinics

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health

Allied Profession Intersections: Occupational Therapy

Type of Activity: Edible Plant Gardening, Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews, Peer-Reviewed Studies

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Available Upon Request

Summary

Nature-assisted therapy (NAT), which includes activities like gardening, time in natural settings, and horticultural therapy, has become increasingly common for helping veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This review examined the development and current status of NAT for veterans with PTSD, analyzing both scientific and non-scientific literature. The review found that while there are many programs worldwide offering NAT to veterans, there is still a limited amount of peer-reviewed research, and most studies are qualitative case studies rather than large clinical trials. Despite this, the available evidence consistently reports positive effects, such as improved mental health, reduced PTSD symptoms, and better overall well-being, with no studies showing negative outcomes.

The review highlights that NAT is widely used alongside traditional medical and psychological treatments, especially in countries with significant experience treating veterans. Although the scientific evidence base is still growing, veterans participating in NAT programs often report feeling calmer, more hopeful, and better able to cope with daily life. The review suggests a need for more rigorous research but supports the continued use of nature-based approaches as a helpful addition to standard PTSD care for veterans.

Link

Poulsen, D.V., Stigsdotter, U.K., & Refshage, A.D. (2015). Whatever happened to the soldiers? Nature-assisted therapies for veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder: A literature review. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 14(2), 438–45

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