An exploratory study into the effect of an outdoor, cold-water immersion course on mood in adolescents in Norway and the UK.

Background

Increasing evidence supports the mental health benefits of outdoor, cold-water immersion in adults. This explorative study aimed to see if evidence found in adult populations regarding changes associated with the activity on mood could be replicated in adolescents through an educational and practical half-day course. Results will show whether further research is justified in this age group.

Methods

Eighty high school students were recruited, 62 from two upper secondary schools in Kristiansand, Norway and 18 from one school in Brighton, United Kingdom. Mood state was assessed using the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaires before and after a cold-water immersion.

Results

There were significant reductions in negative subscales and significant increases in positive subscales of the POMS questionnaire. Total Mood Disturbance (TMD) was significantly reduced overall (mean pre-post difference 23.40, 95% CI 16.52 - 30.28) across the four swimming groups (Norway lake, two sheltered beaches in Norway, and the open sea in England). These results indicate a positive effect on mood. Overall, 95% of respondents both enjoyed the experience and would "definitely" or "maybe" like to repeat it.

Conclusion

Outdoor cold-water immersion had a significantly positive effect on mood state in adolescents and was enjoyed by most participants. Further studies are therefore warranted.