Live Opera Performances on Veteran Recovery from Homelessness and Post Traumatic Stress: Post- Discussion Qualitative Analysis

TL;DR

This study explores how live opera performances and post-show discussions help Veterans and others understand and address mental health and homelessness issues.

Contribution

The novel contribution is examining the role of live opera and peer-facilitated discussions in promoting recovery and empathy among Veterans and their communities.

Findings

Themes of struggle, hope, and healing emerged from post-performance discussions.

Opera fostered empathy and resource-sharing among Veterans, families, and providers.

Peer-facilitated discussions helped participants reflect on their trauma and recovery journeys.

Abstract

There is limited research on the impact of art forms, including opera, on audience and cast engagement in understanding mental health needs and support for Veterans at risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and homelessness. This qualitative study explores post-performance discussions from audience and cast members after live performances of an opera about Vietnam Veterans and family members, and their experiences of war-time trauma, housing instability, and receiving services to promote recovery and resilience. Audio-recorded and transcribed comments by Veterans (n=8), family members (n=9), providers (n=5) and cast (n=9) were analyzed using thematic analysis for key themes, with examples of quotes. Main themes included: 1) Struggling Post-military Service, including feeling misunderstood and self-isolation; 2) Finding Hope, through commitment and community; and 3) Healing through the Opera by sharing difficult societal issues, promoting empathy, and sharing resources, with lived experiences shared across themes by Veterans, family members, providers and cast/production team with a peer facilitator. The reflections they shared about their journey from trauma and homelessness through implementing strategies to obtain needed services, were fostered through live opera performances and peer-facilitated, post-discussions.