Adolescents nationwide have been grappling with increased rates of hopelessness, suicidal behavior, and mental health struggles since 2009. According to CDC data, persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness increased for adolescents by 40% from 2009 to 2019. These struggles have been further exacerbated by disruptions to social systems, family stress, and other stressors related to …
When it comes to wilderness therapy, blueFire goes above and beyond to create an enriching experience for its clients. Not only do we provide a supportive and transformative environment, but we also recognize the importance of nourishing the body and mind. As part of our holistic approach, blueFire Wilderness employs a Dietitian as well as …
Read more Nourishing Adventures: blueFire Wilderness’ Staff Recipes for Camping
Summer is the season to get outside and enjoy the naturally therapeutic fresh air. Our program operates year-round and has special activities for all seasons. Wilderness therapy in the summer offers a plethora of adventurous activities for students. With summer right around the corner let’s explore all the wonderful programming that will be happening at …
Read more Summer and the Benefits It Brings at blueFire Wilderness Therapy
The benefits of nature on the human psyche have long been espoused, but in recent years researchers have discovered that nature therapy can be just as effective against depression and other mental health conditions as traditional therapy or medication. A study conducted in 2007 found that 90% of those struggling with depression reported higher self-esteem …
Adventure Therapy utilizes active experiential methodology to engage clients and establish a parallel process between the client’s life experience and the client’s therapeutic experience. It focuses on cognitive and behavioral therapeutic goals and incorporates a focused use of the surrounding environment. Adventure therapy is often utilized in wilderness therapy and provides a plethora of benefits …
Outdoor Therapy Has Far-Reaching Benefits The modern teen tends to be indoors for the majority of the day. When a teen does get the proper amount of exercise, it helps stimulate the production of vitamin D, and with severe issues like depression, substance abuse and ADHD behavior. Outdoor Therapy Helps Depression People are meant to …
Read more Your Brain Does Better with Sunshine: Outdoor Therapy for Teens
We generally assume that there are gender differences that explain why teens appreciate organized sports. Girls seek out activities for the social aspects, while boys chase opportunities for competition, right? According to a new study that analyzed determinants that make outdoor activities fun for teens, teens tend to be drawn to activities that teach them …
Read more Boys and Girls Appreciate Values Learned From Adventure Activities
Physical activity releases similar amounts of dopamine and endorphins, feel-good neurotransmitters, as engaging in risky behaviors, like substance use, reckless driving, and theft. Impulsive teens tend to be thrill seekers and sensation seekers and look for intense emotional experiences to add a sense of adventure to their lives. When they build a tolerance for the …
Teens who struggle with mental illnesses that can include but are not limited to addiction, anxiety, depression, and/or post-traumatic stress disorder may need more help than you can give them at home. There are various therapeutic approaches that can be beneficial to teens who need to learn to cope with their struggles or develop healthy …
If you’ve ever been rock climbing, you know the unbelievably good feeling you get when you conquer that wall and reach the top. Whether it’s on a fake wall or a real rock face, it gives you a feeling of accomplishment and confidence. That’s what rock climbing therapy and other adventure therapy activities are based …
Read more Rock Climbing Therapy & Other Activities Improve Depression, Anxiety