In recent decades, the need for veterans' mental health treatment has increased dramatically. But while utilization of Veterans Affairs services has risen, a large number of veterans who could benefit from its resources either drop out from services early or do not access them at all. Given veterans' reluctance to engage in traditional modalities of treatment, the psychological benefits of nature- and adventure-based interventions are of particular interest as an alternative approach to address veterans' mental health needs. Although current literature suggests that therapeutic adventure produces positive outcomes for veteran participants, existing literature does not explain the mechanisms by which therapeutic adventure impacts veterans' mental health. The authors conducted a thorough literature review on nature-based interventions and adventure-based intervention with veterans. Using existing research, this article presents a conceptual argument and conceptual map for how nature-based therapeutic adventure impacts veterans' mental health. Nature and time in the wilderness are effective in improving the physical and psychological well-being of individuals. As a result, veterans may greatly benefit from utilizing therapeutic adventure. In addition, therapeutic adventure includes a group component, allowing for relationship skill building and meaningful connection with peer veterans. Nature- and adventure-based interventions should be considered as potentially strong treatment approaches for veteran populations.
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