Trial of Surf and Hike Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder

This prospective, longitudinal randomized controlled trial will enroll up to 86 active duty
service members with major depressive disorder who are seeking surf or hike therapy as part
of their standard medical care. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive 6 weeks of
either surf or hike therapy. Assessor-administered and self-report measures will be completed
at pre- and post-program, as well as three months following program completion. Participants
also will complete brief, self-report assessments before and after each program activity
session.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Be a military service member seeking surf or hike therapy as part of the Wounded, Ill,
and Injured Wellness program at Naval Medical Center San Diego;

- Have medical clearance to participate in these programs;

- Have a current diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder based on DSM-5 criteria.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Service members who are currently receiving surf or hike therapy (i.e., have already
started attending program sessions);

- Service members who are currently pregnant