Cultivating Recovery: Horticulture Therapy in Veterans Addiction Inpatient and Outpatient Programs
Horticulture & Turfgrass
M Robinson
Horticulture Specialist
University of Nevada Cooperative Extension
Las Vegas
Abstract
Veterans struggling with addiction and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) often find solace and support in specialized inpatient recovery programs. This presentation explores a unique facet of recovery at a Veterans addiction inpatient facility, where Horticulture Therapy (gardening) is integrated as a valuable coping skill. Initiated by Master Gardeners from the University of Nevada Extension Southern Area Master Gardener Program in September 2022, this therapy has proven to be a transformative experience for Veterans.
The gardening sessions are designed to be immersive and hands-on, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among the Veterans. Each week, discussions precede practical activities, allowing participants to engage in the garden's care and maintenance. Notably, a designated leader is assigned each week, mirroring practices in other living spaces, reinforcing accountability and leadership skills.
Beyond therapeutic benefits, Veterans actively partake in the cultivation and consumption of produce from the garden, enhancing their connection to the natural world and promoting a holistic sense of well-being. This successful inpatient program is now expanding to include outpatient services, with off-site garden beds providing an additional avenue for Veterans' involvement.
This presentation delves into the profound impact of Horticulture Therapy on Veterans' recovery journeys, shedding light on the innovative strategies employed, the community-building aspects of shared gardening, and the potential for expansion to benefit a broader spectrum of Veterans seeking comprehensive addiction recovery.
Authors: M Robinson, Elain Fagin
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M Robinson Horticulture Specialist, University of Nevada , Nevada, 89123-1904
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Elain Fagin Community Based Instructor , University of Nevada Reno , Nevada, 89123