A Preliminary Examination of a Posttraumatic Growth-Based Program for Veteran Mental Health

• Published in: Practice innovations (Washington, D.C.) D.C.), 2021-03, Vol.6 (1), p.42-54
• Main Authors: Moore, Bret A., Tedeschi, Richard G., Greene, Taryn C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Combat Experience; Evidence Based Practice; Female; Human; Intervention; Male; Mental Disorders; Military Veterans; Posttraumatic Growth; Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
• ISSN: 2377-889X; 2377-8903
• DOI: 10.1037/pri0000136

Prevalence studies of combat veterans from the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan reveal that up to 20% experience some type of psychiatric disorder as a result of their combat experiences. One of the more notable psychiatric conditions for combat veterans is posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Currently, trauma-focused, manualized psychotherapies are the prominent interventions for PTSD. These interventions, however, have significant limitations related to effectiveness, tolerance, and adherence. Consequently, alternative interventions should be considered. The present study provides longitudinal data over 18 months on an integrative approach that is based on the principles of posttraumatic growth. Outcomes related to psychiatric symptoms, quality of life, stress and emotion management, psychological flexibility, and psychological growth are reported. The application of these principles by practitioners is reviewed. Clinical Impact Statement Current treatments for PTSD in combat veterans have established efficacy, but a significant portion of those who receive these treatments either discontinue prematurely or experience modest gains. A novel approach to the treatment of trauma in combat veterans has been developed that integrates the interventional model of posttraumatic growth, which is the concept that positive and transformative psychological changes result in the struggle with difficult life experiences.