Citation

Caddick N, Smith B. Qual. Res. Sport Exerc. Health 2018; 10(4): 429-440.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/2159676X.2017.1333033

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Different approaches to treatment for mental health problems in military veterans continue to attract research attention. In addition to the NICE-approved treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy and eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing, a number of novel and innovative approaches have recently been developed. One such approach is encapsulated under the emerging paradigm of 'exercise as/is medicine'. Following recent calls to strengthen the evidence base for new and emerging mental health treatments for veterans, this paper presents a commentary on current evidence in support of 'exercise as medicine' derived from qualitative research studies. It is concluded that qualitative research has made a significant contribution to the emerging evidence base for exercise-based interventions. This evidence base can be used to inform current debates about quality assurance in the area of veterans' mental health-care and to underpin quality provision for service users. Qualitative research also has a significant future contribution to make towards improving the evaluation of novel treatment approaches, generating more impactful research and increasing the applicability of research findings in 'exercise as/is medicine'. The paper closes with some critical reflections on the role of exercise-based interventions as a means of helping veterans improve their mental health.

Language: en

Keywords

Exercise; medicine; mental health; PTSD; qualitative research; veterans