Changing the Tide: Psychological Outcomes Among Active Duty Service Members Following a Surf Therapy Program

Abstract

Surf programs for individuals with psychological conditions exist; however, data evaluating such programs are limited. PURPOSE: This study examined psychological outcomes among active duty service members participating in a surf therapy program at Naval Medical Center San Diego. METHODS: Seventy-four active duty service members completed self-report questionnaires before and after the 6-week program and before and after each surf therapy session. RESULTS: Multilevel modeling results demonstrated that total scores for symptoms of depression (β = -2.31, p < .01), anxiety (β = -3.55, p < .001), posttraumatic stress disorder (probable PTSD subgroup only; β = -14.55, p < .001), and negative affect (β = -6.40, p < .001) significantly decreased from pre- to post-program, while positive affect significantly increased (β = 9.46, p < .001). Within each session, depression/anxiety symptoms significantly lessened (β = -3.35, p < .001) and positive affect significantly improved (β = 8.97, p < .001). Within-session changes did not differ across sessions (p > .05). Results for subgroups with probable PTSD or major depressive disorder were comparable to those of the full sample. CONCLUSION: Immediate benefits of surf therapy included significantly reduced depression/anxiety and increased positive affect. As a complementary intervention, surf therapy may improve depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms, with potentially unique benefits on affect.