2 minute read
Complementary Treatments for PTSD
By Gage Chu and Ariel Lang, PhD, MPH
Those who live with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) know it is a condition that can be as
physical as it is mental. When someone with PTSD recalls a traumatic event, the memories of that event don’t just live in their mind—their body responds to the memories, too. Past traumatic events are often perceived by the body as present threats, causing it to release “fight or flight” chemicals like cortisol and adrenaline. Physical responses like these can put people with PTSD in a state of “hyperarousal,” which some describe as being overly alert, on edge, or jumpy. These physical responses lie at the root of some of PTSD’s most painful and treatment-resistant symptoms, such as trouble sleeping or feeling irritable or on edge.
Many with PTSD find relief from leading treatments like Prolonged Exposure and Cognitive Processing Therapy (available at any VA and many community locations) to improve their symptoms. But, while these psychotherapeutic treatments are safe and often helpful, some Veterans may prefer interventions that focus on the connection between the mind and body. By layering conventional and complementary treatment methods, Veterans may be able to address their own unique symptoms and improve their quality of life.
VA Research: Exercise/Yoga for PTSD
Fortunately, recovery from PTSD is possible, and comprehensive, whole-health treatment options are available and in demand: 16-38% of Veterans say they’ve used complementary and alternative approaches in the past 12 months. Studies show that Veterans with PTSD may benefit from several different types of meditation, yoga and other exercise programs, and acupuncture. Here are some steps to follow if you would like to start…
Step 1: Identify your options: talk to your provider or reach out to the VA about what kinds of programs are available and are a good fit for you. Beware of costly programs that make big promises. Step 2: Set a goal: many complementary treatments need to become part of your lifestyle. One or two days won’t tell you much, but one or two months might. Decide what is a fair test of its benefit for you. Step 3: Define success: pick a specific, measurable change that would let you know you are doing better. This might be “I’ll sleep at least 4 hours a night” or “I’ll lose my temper and yell less than once a week.” Step 4: Don’t get defeated. If the first thing you try doesn’t meet your needs go back to step 1…
Participate from home. Includes 12 weeks of Yoga OR Strength and Flexibility Training online or livestreamed classes. Looking for veterans currently bothered by PTSD symptoms Compensation up to $250.
For more information, please call the Research Coordinator at (858) 257-6003.
VA San Diego Healthcare System VA San Diego Healthcare System IRB NUMBER: H180029 IRB NUMBER: H180029 VA San Diego IRB#H180029IRB APPROVAL DATE: 09/30/2021 IRB APPROVAL DATE: 09/17/2021
