An Exercise-Based Program for Veterans with Substance Use Disorders: Formative Research

Abstract

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are prevalent among veteran populations. Adjunctive treatments for SUDs are warranted for many reasons, including high relapse rates. Physical exercise has broad health benefits as well as mood-enhancing, anxiolytic, and withdrawal-reducing effects, but veterans with SUDs report low rates of regular exercise. Evaluating exercise-based interventions that incorporate evidence-based behavior change strategies tailored to meet the unique needs of veterans with SUDs is warranted. This article describes the formative research conducted to evaluate the following information among veterans receiving treatment for SUDs: (1) interest in an adjunctive exercise program to supplement their current SUD treatment; and (2) exercise program design considerations. A survey and small group interviews were conducted to obtain both quantitative and qualitative data. Results suggested that veterans with SUDs are interested in exercise, and participants provided perceptive suggestions for modifying an existing evidence-based program. These findings will be used to design an exercise-based treatment program tailored specifically for veterans with SUDs.

Keywords:

• exercise
• formative research
• qualitative research
• substance use disorders

Additional information

Funding

The authors would like to thank the VA Centerof Excellence for Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH)within the VASDHS for the financial support needed toconduct this study.