Pilot study of telehealth delivery of horticultural therapy (TeleHT) as an acceptable intervention and in reducing suicide risk factors in veterans.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Converging evidence indicates that Horticultural Therapy (HT) contributes to significant reductions in stress, loneliness, and depression, notable risk factors for suicidality. This pilot study aimed to assess the initial feasibility and acceptability of HT when virtually administered.

Intervention

Telehealth-delivered horticultural therapy (TeleHT) was administered to groups of Veterans, including those with elevated suicide risk over the course of four weeks. Participants were each sent a package through the mail of at-home gardening supplies that were used to facilitate multisensory, nature experiences during weekly HT sessions administered via Zoom.

Outcome measures

Participants completed thermometer-based scales for the suicide risk factors of stress,

SUBMITTER: Meore A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12168245 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature