Leisure Types, Coping, Happiness, and Life Satisfaction among Veterans

Objectives: Our purpose was to investigate the relationships between leisure types and coping, happiness, and life satisfaction among veterans. Methods: Our sample was 106 veterans. We used hierarchical multiple regression analysis to examine the relationships of the previously identified variables. Demographic variables were entered into the first block of the regression model, and all the demographic variables and types of leisure activities were then entered into the second block. Results: Age, disability status, sports, and volunteer activities were positively associated with the problem-solving coping strategy. Only outdoor activities were positively related to the social support coping strategy. Home-based activities were positively associated with the avoidance coping strategy. Disability status, outdoor activities, and social activities were positively associated with life satisfaction. Age and social activities were positively associated with happiness. Conclusions: Overall, participation in social and outdoor activities was positively associated with active coping, social-seeking coping, life satisfaction, and happiness. This finding supports the literature on leisure and health, suggesting the value of leisure activities as an effective coping strategy and a positive influence on the mental health of veterans.