The National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic: Change and duration of psychological outcomes

• Published in: Psychology of sport and exercise 2021-07, Vol.55, p.101939, Article 101939
• Main Authors: Walter, Kristen H., Otis, Nicholas P., Del Re, A.C., Kohen, Casey B., Glassman, Lisa H., Ober, Kathleen M., Hose, Michal Kalli
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adaptive sports; Exercise; Outdoor recreation programs; Psychological outcomes; Veterans
• ISSN: 1469-0292; 1878-5476
• DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2021.101939

Recreational and adaptive sports programs are often provided to veterans with a variety of psychological and physical conditions; however, limited data exist regarding the outcomes of these programs. The current study evaluated the psychological outcomes of attendees of the 2017 and 2018 National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic (NVSSC) in San Diego, California. Seventy-four veteran participants completed self-report assessments before and after the week-long program, as well as 3 months following program completion. In addition, participants completed brief assessments before and after each of the daily recreational activities (cycling, surfing, sailing, kayaking, and archery/pickleball). Findings showed that depression, anxiety, social functioning, and positive and negative affect significantly improved from pre-to postprogram, but returned to baseline levels at 3-month follow-up. Within sessions, depression/anxiety and positive affect significantly improved each day, with no differences in the amount of change across days. Depression/anxiety and positive affect also significantly improved within each activity, regardless of order, with no differences in the magnitude of change across activities. The NVSSC produced significant changes in psychological outcomes among veteran participants within immediate and short-term time periods; however, gains were not maintained longer-term. Follow-on engagement in exercise activities is likely necessary for continued benefit; future research, including studies with control groups, would provide greater clarity. •A 5-day recreation program reduced depression and anxiety symptoms among veterans.•The program also improved positive affect, negative affect, and social functioning.•However, outcomes rebounded to baseline levels at 3-month follow-up.•Depression/anxiety and positive affect improved during activity sessions.•The amount of immediate benefit did not differ based on day or activity type.