Wildlife and Wellbeing: An Animal-Assisted Intervention for Veterans With PTSD

Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic Clinical Trial

Official title: Wildlife and Wellbeing: An Animal-Assisted Intervention for Veterans With PTSD

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

This study investigates a novel approach to animal-assisted interventions through a series of wildlife immersion activities (wildlife observation, wildlife rehabilitation and bird feeding/watching) for veterans who have suffered trauma as part of their military duty. Findings from this study will advance scientific knowledge about the benefits of wildlife activities for veterans with PTSD including the acceptability, feasibility, safety and preliminary influence on physical and mental well-being. The findings will be instrumental in advancing a new area of health intervention research for veterans in settings that are publicly accessible and family-oriented for sustainable, low-cost interventions with potential application in other populations.

Clinical Trial Description

This study utilized a crossover design. The intervention included an introductory forest walk followed by 3 wildlife immersion activity experiences in different settings that offered different ways to experience wildlife. This included an introductory forest walk, a wildlife rehabilitation center, a wildlife sanctuary and a bird watching program. Each activity was conducted twice to minimize potential anxiety and novelty effects. Activities were conducted in small groups to provide peer support. ;

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic

• NCT number: NCT04116489
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: University of Massachusetts, Worcester
• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Start date: July 5, 2019
• Completion date: December 31, 2022