Does an Occupational Therapy Program Enhance Mental Health Outcomes for Veterans Who Scuba Dive

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byDragana Krpalek, PhD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Loma Linda University

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The purpose of the study is to investigate whether an occupational therapy program could enhance mental health outcomes for veterans who SCUBA dive. SCUBA diving requires modified breathing techniques and has been found to provide calming effects to individuals who engage in this activity. Occupational therapy interventions such as mindfulness, journaling, and deep breathing techniques can also provide similar calming effects. Therefore, this study will explore whether occupational therapy can provide additional benefits to overall mental health of veterans who SCUBA dive.

Research Team

Dragana Krpalek, PhD

Principal Investigator

Loma Linda University Health

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

18 to 95 years of age

Participation in WAVES Project for at least 3 months

Completion of 3 open water dives

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Treatment Details

Interventions

SCUBA with Occupational Therapy (OT) (Behavioral Intervention)
Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA) without OT (Behavioral Intervention)

Participant Groups

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: SCUBA Dive with OTExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Two SCUBA dives in conjunction with occupational therapy intervention. The occupational therapy intervention will take place on the beach or on the boat before/after the SCUBA dive. The intervention will consist of learning 3 different breathing techniques. Participants will also be educated about mindfulness principals. Additionally, participants will complete journaling activities between dives.

Group II: SCUBA Dive without OTActive Control1 Intervention

The group will engage in two SCUBA dives.