The current study evaluates psychological and physical health outcomes for active-duty service members following participation in an established surf therapy program. Participants complete assessments before and after the surf therapy program, as well as brief assessments before and after each surf therapy session.

The proposed study would evaluate whether an existing surf therapy program that is part of the Wounded, Ill, and Injured (WII) Wellness Program at Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD), significantly reduces both psychological symptoms (e.g., PTSD, depression, anxiety, negative affect, lack of positive affect) and physical symptoms (e.g., pain, sleep) among active-duty service members. Psychological and physical symptoms will be assessed before beginning the surf program and at program completion. In addition, brief assessments of mood and symptoms will be completed before and after each individual surf therapy session.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Active-duty military service members seeking surf therapy at NMCSD and have been medically cleared to participate
• Diagnosis of either a psychological (e.g., PTSD, depression) or physical (e.g., amputated limb; traumatic brain injury) condition that served as a reason for referral

Exclusion Criteria:

• Service members who cannot receive medical clearance to participate in the NMCSD surf therapy program
• Service members who have previously participated in the NMCSD surf therapy program

The sample will consist of up to 75 active-duty service members (male or female) who are seeking surf therapy through the WII Wellness Program at NMCSD. As the study is being implemented into standard care, the current study is designed to have broad eligibility criteria.