Surfing turns tide for suffering soldiers

WASHINGTON - A research program conducted by the United States Navy has found that surfing can help ease mental health issues suffered by active-duty military personnel.

Having analyzed questionnaires answered by service members before, during and after a program of surfing for one day a week for six weeks, researchers said the initial results of the study indicated that the activity alleviated insomnia and anxiety and resulted in a decline in the overall negative attitude toward life, along with symptoms of depression.

Launched last year, the $1 million project seeks to determine whether surfing can be applied to people in uniform as therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and sleep problems, according to a report by The Washington Post on Saturday.