Impact of heroes on the water kayak fishing program on post-traumatic growth in U.S. military veterans: A case report

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of Heroes on the Water’s kayak fishing program on post-traumatic growth (PTG) in U.S. military veterans. PTG is a theory that suggests positive psychological changes can occur after a traumatic experience. Growth can occur in the form of personal strengths, relating to others, new possibilities, appreciation for life, and spiritual changes. Current research has suggested that recreation can aid in facilitating PTG. Recreation has also been considered a complementary form of treatment for veterans, particularly the use of outdoor and nature-based recreational programs. Heroes on the Water is a nonprofit organization providing kayak fishing program to veterans and their families across the U.S. Three participants completed the Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) reflecting on their experiences pre and post-their participation in Heroes on the Water. Each participant reported a change in their PTGI scores, more specifically an increase in PTG after participating in Heroes on the Water kayak fishing programs. Though the results of this study cannot be generalized, they add to the knowledge about the use of recreational therapy to facilitate PTG in veterans and encourage continued research in this topic.