“It Seems to Sort of Wash My Brain Out”: The Experiences of Open-Water Swimmers with Depression

Depression is a leading cause of disability with many individuals experiencing recurrent episodes of depression across their lifetime. Existing treatment approaches have varied degrees of effectiveness, and the value of social prescribing practices is being recognised. Given the persistent nature of depression, many individuals seek out alternative methods to manage their own symptoms. Open-water swimming is becoming increasingly popular as a means of supporting mental health. There is an emerging evidence base indicating the helpfulness of open-water swimming for depression, however no study to date has explored the lived experiences of regular open-water swimmers with depression. Therefore, this qualitative study aimed to understand the experiences of individuals with depression who use open-water swimming regularly to manage their symptoms. Ten participants who identified as having depression and being regular open-water swimmers were recruited and interviewed. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), three group experiential themes and seven sub-themes were identified: 1) Standing up to Depression (the challenge of the cold, self-agency over depression); 2) Belonging in a Community (supporting one another, finding self-acceptance through group acceptance, communal joy and play); 3) Embodiment and connection in the natural world (reawakening of the senses to quiet the mind, immersed in the natural world). Novel insights into the perceived mechanisms of open-water swimming for managing symptoms of depression are presented. The findings indicate that incorporating aspects of challenge, community, and exposure to, and connection with, nature into social prescribing interventions for depression may be beneficial.