IMPACT
Veterans, loved ones, and volunteers alike enjoy the fun, fellowship, and sense of well-being that are the hallmark of community dance. Veteran participants report greater wellness, improved relationships, and a clear reduction in symptoms.
A Scientifically proven program
Dancing Well outcomes have been documented in a peer-reviewed study titled “Pilot Data on Effects of Community Dance for Veterans with PTSD and their Family Members” published in the Journal of Veterans Studies (July 2019). The study was conducted by Western Connecticut State University and the University of Louisville and measured the effects of participation in the Dancing Well program on veterans and adult family members.
The study measured connectedness, experience avoidance, hope, and optimism. Results from three questionnaires were combined into a single “wellness” score. Veterans showed increased feelings of worthiness and connectedness, reduced tendency to isolate, and improved mood and outlook on the future. Significant improvements in were found in all participants, regardless of PTSD status. Details can be found here.
community, engagement, and belonging
In a recent dance series, 100% of Veterans with PTSD reported that they:
felt welcome
felt engaged with other participants and open to socializing with them
felt a sense of community from being with other Veterans and loved ones
felt they belonged to the Dancing Well group
felt freedom to express themselves during dance sessions
found the program fun and would recommend it to others
are "very likely" to attend again
improved health and relationships
Pre- and post-dance surveys for the Louisville series consistently show improved mood, memory, sleep, physical health, and outlook on the future, as well as decreased anxiety for participating veterans with PTSD and/or brain injury. Veterans also report feeling less isolated and that their relationships with family, friends, and others have improved. Past surveys have even shown a decrease in pain levels for participants.
“You know, it’s really amazing – you start us off with just walking and pretty soon the music starts and we’re dancing. We don’t even realize it, and now we’re dancing. And once we get going, I can’t stop smiling. All my cares just slip away, and I feel really good.”
Surveys show gains for veteran families, as well, including better relationships with partners and parents and in addition to the many benefits that come from interacting and networking with other families coping with PTSD and brain injury.
Click the link below to learn about the impact of our work on an individual veteran and his family.