I'm a US Army veteran, I received my certification right after i graduated the ASPIRE Center in San Diego California. I came in December 15 2016 straight from the VA psych-ward. I had been homeless, suicidal and had no care for life. After 7 months of therapy I graduated July 13 2017. The center was a great facility but the truth is, if we don't strengthen our minds and practice coping skills we can fall deeper than before. I have multiple diagnosis' and multiple suicide attempts. Diving is one of the best practices that Ive had the pleasure to learn. I acquired my PADI Certification thanks to Kym Larson.
The best part is the Ocean Dives that are organized, first of all you're surrounded by brothers and sisters, this helps with the initial sense of security for your confidence. Secondly once you achieve buoyancy and you hover listening to the bubbles around you it makes for the perfect meditation. This practice also requires a lot of mindfulness and in return you get a calming sensation that is very different from usual therapy I am extremely grateful for my instructors and for being offered the opportunity.
This has become something for my wellness and it benefits me in more ways than I can think of.