Resources
Thought Leadership
Subscribe to our Linked In Newsletter for additional thought leadership articles.
Addressing Social Isolation through Recreational Therapy
Feeling disconnected from others can have profound effects on mental and emotional well-being. However, there's hope.
Recovery through Recreation Therapy
Heroes on the Water's therapeutic programs partner with the DoD and VA recreational therapists to facilitate a comprehensive recovery journey.
Tell Your Story…Without Telling Your Story
Peer support is a system of giving and receiving help founded on key principles of respect, shared responsibility, and mutual agreement of what is helpful. Peer support uses the understanding of another’s situation through shared experiences.
Post Traumatic Stress – Combat vs Cumulative
Post-Traumatic Stress is not a one size fits all diagnosis. It can happen to anyone for a variety of reasons, including military combat and law enforcement as a career. The PTS symptoms that impact these heroes can be minimized through outdoor therapy.
PTSD and PTG – Healing from Trauma
Heroes on the Water’s recurring kayak fishing program promotes continual wellness and healing for veterans, first responders and their families, which is in alignment with promoting post-traumatic growth.
It’s More Than Fishing
Our brains need the outdoors - it’s in our makeup to want to be outdoors, immersed in the calming effect it brings to us. When HOW first began kayak fishing experiences, we could see and feel first-hand the impact of the being outside on our heroes.
Intergenerational Transmission of Wellness
Intergenerational transmission events have been studied from multiple angles, including trauma, economic status, and even wellness. Heroes on the Water’s programs support the transmission of wellness through kayak fishing and the outdoors.
Women Take Yourself Outside – Literally
Multiple studies prove that women who spend time outdoors feel more connected, more satisfied, and less anxious. Especially if they participate in a sport like kayaking.
Anxious? Paddle Away from Stress
Outdoor Recreation, e.g. kayak fishing, is proven to Reduce Anxiety, according to a study recently completed by Heroes on the Water.
Mental Health and Relationships
Amplifying Women Veterans’ Voices
Upon returning to civilian life, many women veterans grapple with the dual pressures of personal and familial responsibilities while navigating the complexities of military experiences.
Navigating the Holiday Season
Prioritizing mental well-being during the holidays, focusing on three critical aspects: sobriety, family triggers, loneliness, and provide additional resources for veterans.
Warning Signs of Suicide: Connecting for Prevention and Support
Suicide is a complex issue. It demands our attention and understanding, as well as a proactive approach to prevention.
The State of Our Community
Suicide and mental health are major concerns for veterans and first responders, who often face high levels of stress and trauma in their line of work. Learn ways to cope with stress.
The Power of Hope
Hope is more than just a word. Science has proven that cultivating hope can improve brain function and resiliency. Here are 5 ways that you can increase feelings of hope to improve your everyday life.
4 Tips for Building Bonds in Military Families
A focus on military families - learn ways to cope with military life and improve family bonds and resilience.
Health Practices To Improve Mental Health In First Responders
First Responders are 30% more likely than civilians to experience mental health conditions. Learn about practices that can help first responders cope and thrive.
Why Spending Time Near Water Will Improve Your Overall Wellness
While the cognitive impacts of spending time in nature are desirable, there are also other emotional, physiological benefits to increasing your time outdoors, particularly if water is involved.
4 Positive Ways to Cope with Post-Traumatic Stress
Whether you or someone you love have recently been diagnosed with PTS or are just looking for ways to cope, there is a wide spectrum of mental health practices to help you cope.
Kayaking and Fishing Tips
Staying Safe While Kayaking in Unpredictable Weather
As the season changes and the weather becomes more unpredictable, it’s crucial for kayakers to be prepared and informed.
Embrace the Season
Extend your kayaking season into fall for cooler weather, fewer crowds, and great fishing. Here are tips for your best autumn adventures.
Kayak Fishing Tournament Tips for Success
Attending a fundraising kayak fishing tournament is a fun way to showcase your skills and support a nonprofit.
Staying Hydrated During the Summer
When Kayak fishing in the summer months, it is essential to take steps to keep both yourself and your prosthetic limb properly hydrated.
What is a Ned Rig?
What is a Ned Rig and what are the two key things to look for when deciding when and where to throw a Ned Rig.
How to Remove a Fishhook
Our resident fishing expert, Paul Martin - Therapeutic Programs Manager, shares two options for removing a fishhook from your body.
Introducing Kids to Fishing
While many adults are eager to teach their youngsters, there is a right way, and a wrong way, to introduce a child to fishing. Follow these guidelines to hook a lifelong fishing partner.
Let’s Get Ready to Kayak Fish!
Studies prove that spending time outdoors is good for your mental and physical health. We know that kayak fishing is a great recreational therapy. Here are 3 tips to get ready for the season!
What You Need To Know Before Getting On the Water
Getting on the water for your first kayaking excursion is exciting! Learn some basic but necessary tips to make sure your trip is as safe as it is fun.
Observances and History
U.S. Flag Etiquette
The U.S. flag is symbol of the bravery and commitment to our country shown by our military families. Read the list of do’s and don’ts associated with the U.S. Flag.
Hidden Heroes
Each year in May military caregivers are honored for their service, the unsung heroes who selflessly provide long-term care. Here are a few ways you can show your caregiver what their service means to you.
4 Benefits of Monthly Recurring Donations
Monthly recurring donations help not for profit organizations around the world make meaningful impacts for their causes. Learn about the ways donors can benefit too!
Memorial Day: Why We Celebrate
In the years since its inception as a federal holiday, Memorial Day has become a marker for the beginning of Summer. But as with many holidays, sometimes the true meaning of Memorial Day can get lost in all of the marketing.
Month of the Military Child
We often forget just how much a person’s service impacts all their loved ones. Everyone from parents to spouses, children and friends can be greatly impacted. Learn how families are impacted and how to celebrate Month of the Military Child.
Historical Female Military Icons
Throughout history, there have been several significant milestones accomplished by women, especially in the military. Here we highlight some of the most important women figures in U.S. military history.
