The use of adrenaline/adventure therapy with young males in an urban Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) Service

Abstract

Young adults who have experienced mental health problems often report very low self-confidence, social and psychological isolation and a lack of achievement opportunities. Outdoor pursuits or 'adventure therapies' are reported to offer effective ways to develop an individual's self-esteem and locus of control (e.g. Berman and Berman, 1989). It is rare, however, for such activities to be offered as a pure intervention in a recovery programme. Preliminary evidence: 'Maximise' was designed as a course to build confidence and improve self-esteem in young males from black and minority ethnic communities, who have experienced significant mental health problems. It contained a number of concepts to improve confidence, selfesteem alongside adrenaline activities in a supportive group environment, to challenge participants and stimulate the discussion and learning. The evaluation of 'Maximise' was compiled using the Rosenberg Self- Esteem Scale before and after the course. All participants who completed the course achieved an improvement of at least five points on this scale. Positive results were obtained from this group; however, 'Adrenaline/ Adventure therapy' had not been used in isolation. Development: Subsequently, a focused 6-week adrenaline/adventure therapy programme has been run within the service. Our evaluation consists of, the use of, opinion-based questionnaires pre and post each activity; Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale pre and post the full course; and by participants taking part in semi-structured interviews conducted by an independent person. Poster Presentation: This poster will present the findings from the adrenaline/ adventure therapy programme from its conception to full evaluation.