Can Scuba Diving Help Veterans Heal From PTSD and Experience Growth?

What you need to know

• Scuba diving appears to provide immediate relief from PTSD symptoms and anxiety for veterans
• The underwater environment creates a unique sense of calm and weightlessness that helps both physical and psychological healing
• Connection with other veterans through diving creates important social support and sense of belonging

Finding Peace Underwater

Many veterans struggle with the transition back to civilian life after service, particularly those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The constant hypervigilance, anxiety, and isolation can make daily life extremely challenging. But some veterans are finding hope and healing in an unexpected place - underwater.

The Power of Weightlessness and Calm

One of the most striking findings was how quickly veterans experienced relief when submerged. They described an immediate sense of calm and peace the moment their heads went below the surface. The weightless environment underwater also provided physical relief for those with injuries or chronic pain. As one participant explained, “When I am underwater, my arm… I have that movement back.”

This combination of physical and mental relief appears to create a unique therapeutic environment. The silence and stillness underwater helps quiet racing thoughts and reduces hypervigilance - common PTSD symptoms that can be debilitating on land.

Building New Connections

While the physical benefits were significant, equally important was the sense of connection and belonging veterans found through diving. Training and diving with others who shared similar experiences helped combat the isolation many felt. They described it as finding a new “brotherhood” that understood their struggles without judgment.

This social support, combined with the achievement of learning new skills, helped veterans rebuild confidence and identity that may have been damaged through trauma and the transition out of service.

Finding Meaning in Nature

The underwater environment itself played a powerful role in healing. Encounters with marine life and the beauty of the ocean created moments of awe that helped veterans gain new perspective on their struggles. These experiences fostered appreciation for life and connection to something larger than themselves.

Several participants also found new purpose through environmental stewardship, channeling their energy into ocean conservation efforts. This shift from focusing on personal struggles to contributing to a larger cause appears to be an important part of growth after trauma.

What This Means for You

If you or someone you know is a veteran struggling with PTSD, consider:

• Exploring scuba diving programs specifically designed for veterans
• Looking for activities that provide both physical relief and social connection
• Finding ways to experience nature and contribute to environmental causes
• Being open to new therapeutic approaches beyond traditional treatment

While diving may not be right for everyone, the key elements that made it helpful - physical activity, social support, connection with nature, and finding new purpose - can be found through other activities as well.

Conclusions

• Scuba diving appears to provide unique therapeutic benefits through the combination of weightlessness, calm, social connection, and interaction with nature
• The immediate relief from PTSD symptoms underwater can create space for longer-term healing and growth
• Alternative therapeutic approaches involving physical activity and nature may be particularly valuable for veterans who don’t respond well to traditional treatments