Emma, Helene
Objectives: This research investigates previous literature regarding the mental health outcome for people going on health retreats.Research design and methods: The research was explored through a theoretical systematic literature study including a total of 17 studies in various settings. The total number of participants was estimated to 6501 and the data was analyzed using thematic analysis. All the studies are quality reviewed and were included if they involved an intervention program in one or more days. Results: All the 17 studies showed that there was an improvement in the mental health and/or well-being of the majority of the participants in connection to participating in a health retreat. Participating in a health retreat seems to have a good outcome in several dimensions of health. The findings clarify five different themes that are beneficial for mental health; scheduled activities, healthy diet, social support, self-regulation and the environment. Conclusions: The research shows mental health benefits that are connected to health retreats but there is a gap in the translations of science into practice. Starting to research more about for example health retreats might be one way to reduce the knowledge research gap. Further research and integration between health retreats and the health care system with the aim of promoting mental health seems needed.