16. Multiple Sclerosis: Adventure & Wilderness Programs

CONTINUING EDUCATION 

If you are a psychologist and want CE credits for listening this episode, click on this link: https://learn.findempathy.com/courses/FirstDescents

To find out more about all our CE courses visit: FindEmpathy.com/learn.

 

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. In addition to multiple sclerosis, describe at least two medical populations, in which research conducted in collaboration with First Descents, demonstrated improved psychological outcomes.
2.  
   Identify, based on published peer-reviewed research, at least three psychological symptoms or outcomes that improved for medical populations that participated in Outdoor Adventure Programs. 
3. List at least three ways, according to Dr. McGrath, that Outdoor Adventure Programs put psychotherapeutic concepts and theory (e.g., behavioral activation, problem-solving, DBT concept of willingness) into practice outside of the traditional psychotherapy office. 

 

PODCAST SUMMARY

Outdoor adventure programs can be helpful for the mental health of people living with multiple sclerosis for a number of reasons.

First, these programs provide a structured environment in which participants can trial skills that they may have discussed in therapy. This can be beneficial for testing the limits of perceived capabilities, practicing problem-solving, and improving communication skills. Additionally, these programs often take place outdoors, in nature, which research has shown provides mental health benefits. Finally, these programs typically involve physical activity, which can help to improve mood and reduce stress levels. Overall, outdoor adventure programs offer a unique combination of physical, mental, and emotional benefits for people living with multiple sclerosis.

In this course, we will talk with an individual with multiple sclerosis who completed the First Descents program, an MS psychologist and researcher who has published on the benefits of wilderness programs for individuals with serious medical diagnoses, and the Vice President of Programs for First Descents. 

 

Our Experts: 

• Tracy Herring, PhD - MS Researcher and Clinical Psychologist from University of Washington
• Mackenzie McGrath - Vice President of Programs for First Descents
• Jennifer Lee, MD - Both a Medical Professional and participant in the First Descents program

 

RESOURCES

Learn more about First Descents - https://firstdescents.org

Read Dr. Herring's Paper - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34483758/