ERIC Number: EJ1371095
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-8756-8225
EISSN: EISSN-1540-4730
Available Date: N/A
Puppies, Plants, Painting, and Popcorn: Evaluation of an Integrated Outreach Program
Moores, Lisa; Button, Pam; Fawcett, Emily; Whelan, Beth
Journal of College Student Psychotherapy, v36 n4 p410-425 2022
As significant numbers of university students report high levels of stress, post-secondary institutions are seeking accessible mental health and wellness supports. The outreach program presented integrates therapy dogs, therapeutic horticulture, and art making interventions. Over 170 participants completed questionnaires surveying demographic variables, frequency of attendance and engagement, and self-reported reductions in stress and anxiety. Open-ended questions explored students' program experience, their explanations for stress reductions, and recommendations for the program. The vast majority of participants reported a considerable decrease in stress and indicated that the program helped them destress, feel calmer and more relaxed, reduced their anxiety, and helped them feel more in control of their emotions. Participant recommendations included investing in expansion, further development and adequate resourcing of the program. Findings highlight the potential of integrated wellness initiatives to support large and diverse groups of students while decreasing support stigma and contributing to healthy campus goals.
Descriptors: Stress Management, College Students, Outreach Programs, Program Effectiveness, Animals, Intervention, Anxiety, Emotional Response, Self Control, Painting (Visual Arts), Gardening, Foreign Countries
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Canada
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A