Abstract
Mental well-being in Aotearoa is an area that requires great attention due to the increase in psychological distress, higher demand for resources, and limited affordable options for seeking mental health support. Adventure Therapy is a holistic approach that has demonstrated promising insights for improving individuals' mental well-being as evidenced across the international literature. However, the empirical base within Aotearoa for the impact of Adventure Therapy on individuals experiencing psychological distress is somewhat limited. In the current study, we used a mixed-methods approach to investigate the impact of adventure-based programs, ranging from positive youth development (R. Tucker Thompson Saling Voyage) to Adventure-Therapy-specific programs (Ignite and Restore) with youth and adults. Theoretically, the study draws on Self-Determination Theory (SDT), which holds that autonomy, competence, and relatedness are essential psychological needs. These needs were measured alongside changes in mental health and well-being constructs before and after the program. Interviews with adult participants discussed perceived changes and insights from attending the program and whether any impacts were maintained after the program ended. The thematic analysis revealed significant improvements in adults social connection, social confidence, self-efficacy and tools for holistic well-being. The quantitative findings were more mixed, with significant improvements in relatedness and decreased depression for the adults on the Restore program. The youth findings demonstrated improvements in overall well-being, with relatedness predicting changes in well-being constructs for the Tucker voyage. Autonomy, relatedness, and competence predicted changes in well-being scores for the Ignite program. Overall, the findings highlight the potential of adventure-based programs as effective alternative
interventions for enhancing mental health and well-being in Aotearoa.