AUTHENTIC AND THERAPEUTIC ENGAGEMENT WITH THE PAST FOR VETERANS AT NOKALAKEVI, GEORGIA, AND ON BREAKING GROUND HERITAGE PROJECTS IN THE UK

Abstract

This article presents a study of the value of archaeological excavation as a non-medical intervention to support mental health and wellbeing among military veterans. Beginning by discussing quantitative psychological data that shows that it is effective, the article considers qualitative data from UK, Georgian, and Ukrainian veterans to begin establishing “how” archaeology is effective.