Can Outdoor Swimming Help Treat Depression?
Promising, but we need more research. This 2023 study describes a rigorous randomized controlled trial designed to test whether an 8-session outdoor swimming course can help adults with mild to moderate depression symptoms. The trial will compare outdoor swimming plus usual care against usual care alone.
Depression affects at least 1 in 10 people during their lifetime. Standard treatments like medication and therapy have modest recovery rates of 45-50%. Many people struggle with medication side effects or long waiting times for therapy. Researchers are now testing whether nature-based activities like outdoor swimming could offer another option.
Dr. Kumar’s Take
This study protocol is exactly what the field needs. We have lots of anecdotal reports that cold water swimming helps with depression, but we lack rigorous clinical trials. The researchers designed this study properly with randomization, control groups, and validated outcome measures. If the results are positive, this could open the door to prescribing outdoor swimming as a legitimate treatment option. I’m watching this trial closely.
Study Design
The OUTSIDE trial (OUTdoor Swimming as a nature-based Intervention for DEpression) is a feasibility randomized controlled trial designed to answer several important questions:
Participants: 88 adults with mild to moderate depression symptoms will be recruited through social prescribing organizations and social media at three sites in England.
Randomization: Participants will be randomly assigned to either:
- Intervention group: 8-session outdoor swimming course plus usual care
- Control group: Usual care only
Follow-up: Both groups will be followed for an additional 8 weeks after the intervention period.
What the Trial Will Measure
The researchers will assess:
- Whether recruitment and retention rates are acceptable
- Whether participants find randomization acceptable
- Whether the outcome measures work well
- What barriers and facilitators affect participation
Participants will complete questionnaires about their depression symptoms, anxiety, quality of life, and health care use. Focus groups and interviews will explore their experiences in more depth.
Why Outdoor Swimming?
Research shows that access to natural environments, both “green spaces” (parks, forests) and “blue spaces” (water), can improve mental health. An evaluation of 25 ecotherapy projects found that 7 out of 10 participants experienced significant increases in well-being.
Qualitative research suggests that water-based activities offer unique benefits:
- Being present and mindful
- A sense of escape
- Connection with nature
- Social connection with other swimmers
However, not everyone can do the same type of exercise due to injury, disability, or lack of motivation. Having multiple nature-based options allows people to find activities they can actually engage with.
The Growing Need
The total annual cost of mental ill health in the UK is at least £117.9 billion. Depression prevalence increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Standard treatments aren’t working well enough. Only 66% of men and 58% of women meet recommended physical activity levels.
This creates a clear need for additional treatment options that are accessible, affordable, and appealing to people who might not engage with traditional therapies or standard exercise.
Practical Takeaways
- This is a study protocol, not results. We’re still waiting to learn whether outdoor swimming actually helps
- If you’re interested in outdoor swimming for mental health, this research may eventually provide stronger evidence
- Current evidence from smaller studies is promising but not definitive
- Outdoor swimming carries risks and should be approached safely with proper preparation
Related Studies and Research
- Related Podcast Episode
- EXERCISE RECOVERY, DOMS, AND TRAINING ADAPTATION
- Whole-body cryotherapy and fibromyalgia: systematic review/meta-analysis
- CORE PHYSIOLOGY: DIVING REFLEX, TRIGEMINAL PATHWAYS, AUTONOMIC CONTROL
- Open water swimming as a treatment for major depressive disorder (case report)
FAQs
Is this study already completed?
This article describes the study protocol published in 2023. The trial may be ongoing or completed by now. Check the trial registry (ISRCTN 90851983) for updates on results.
Can I participate in outdoor swimming trials?
Clinical trials often recruit participants through specific channels. Check with mental health organizations in your area or clinical trial registries for current opportunities.
Should I try outdoor swimming for my depression?
Talk to your doctor first. While the evidence is promising, outdoor swimming also carries risks (cold shock, drowning). Start gradually and never swim alone.
Bottom Line
This feasibility trial represents a rigorous attempt to test whether outdoor swimming can help adults with mild to moderate depression. With 88 participants randomized to either an 8-session outdoor swimming course or usual care, the study will provide crucial data on whether a larger definitive trial is feasible. If successful, this research could eventually lead to outdoor swimming being offered as an evidence-based treatment option for depression. The study addresses a real need: current treatments have modest success rates, and many people seek alternatives.
