The well-being benefits of nature-based leisure activities are well documented for the general population. Related research, however, is generally sparse for some specific groups of people, including the refugee population. After reaching their host country, refugees often struggle with resettlement stress which can be accompanied by and/or worsened by posttraumatic stress disorder and depression. This study investigated the impact of nature-based leisure on the well-being of refugees in Canada from a psychosocial perspective.
The leisure activity designed for this group of refugees consisted of a two-day winter camping experience in northern Canada. The goal was to introduce refugees to outdoor leisure as a way to reduce stress, build community, and alleviate social isolation. Four adult refugees who had arrived in Canada within the last two years agreed to participate in the study. Two of the participants were women with children; two were single men. Researchers used semi-structured interviews and photo-elicitation to explore the impact of the camping experience. The semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant prior to and approximately two weeks after the camping experience. The first interview focused on the participants' leisure activities experienced in their homelands and in Canada. Photos taken by the participants during their camping experience were used as discussion prompts during the post-camping interviews. Related discussion focused on the participants' experience at the camp and their thoughts about the experience. Participants were also asked to share information about how the camping experience impacted their sense of well-being.
Responses to the first interview indicated that the participants were looking forward to getting away from the city, having an opportunity to relax, seeing a more natural environment, making friends, and spending time with others. After the camping trip, participants expressed awe at the vast landscape and the beauty of the setting. They appreciated the opportunity to connect with others, to learn new activities, and to involve their families. They found the experience to be a healthy distraction from their daily lives. The supportive and welcoming efforts of the social services and park personnel helped to bolster their confidence and well-being. The refugees noted how the experience promoted feelings of confidence, independence, and overcoming reticence. For the mothers, the involvement of their children enhanced their own positive experience of the camp and increased their willingness to try new activities.
Overall findings suggest that developing nature-based leisure opportunities for refugees may promote their well-being and sense of belonging. These findings highlight the importance of host countries providing access to nature-based leisure for refugees as a way to mitigate their stress and foster their well-being.
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