Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that is triggered by a traumatic event. PTSD symptoms, including nightmares and unwanted memories of the trauma, irritability and angry outbursts, and a need to constantly be on-guard, can last for years if left untreated.
Individuals with PTSD often feel disconnected from life, which can mean a lack of interest in hobbies and trouble maintaining relationships. Avoidance plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of PTSD symptoms. Individuals with PTSD tend to use avoidance as a primary coping mechanism and, although avoidance “works” in the short term, ultimately it is the primary cause of ongoing PTSD symptoms in the long term. Not everyone who endures a traumatic event will develop PTSD; however, for those who do, everyday life can feel unbearable.
The good news is that there are effective treatments available for Veterans with PTSD, and the VA is here to help. Many Veterans with PTSD can be effectively treated via a full round of evidence-based outpatient psychotherapy which typically involves weekly sessions. Daily intensive outpatient therapy is also available for those Veterans in need of a higher level of care. But what if outpatient therapy isn’t enough? That’s where the PTSD Residential Recovery Program (PRRP) can help.
PRRP is an 8-to-9-week residential treatment program for male Veterans and active-duty service members with military-related PTSD. PRRP operates on a “cohort model,” meaning that the same group of patients start and end the program together. The cohort model helps patients to form bonds with one another, which has proven to be a crucial aspect to the healing process. PRRP offers evidence-based group and individual therapy, as well as comprehensive psychiatric and medical care, peer support interventions, and therapeutic recreational activities. The program’s recovery and integrative treatment model is designed to decrease PTSD symptoms and increase effective coping skills.
“The main thing I want people to know is that PTSD is treatable,” said Navy Veteran Dr. Angela Adams, Psychologist, PRRP Program Manager. “PTSD does not have to be a life sentence; it is okay to get help.”
A residential program can sound frightening to some people. Others might think that they don’t need it. However, Dr. Adams wants Veterans to know that they deserve help, and that there is no shame in asking for it. If a Veteran’s symptoms interfere with their ability to lead a happy and fulfilling life, the PRRP could be a great opportunity for them to reconnect with life and heal. Remember: Seeking treatment doesn’t mean admitting weakness. To seek treatment demonstrates bravery and a commitment to recovering from a psychological injury.
On the surface, some of the therapies offered by PRRP, including Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure, can sound scary. Dr. Adams wants Veterans to know that, “although these evidence-based treatments can be intimidating and challenging, they can also completely transform one’s life.”
“Another fact that I want to communicate to Veterans with PTSD is that memories can’t technically harm you,” said Dr. Adams. “Trauma memories are certainly distressing, but they are not harmful. Effective treatments help Veterans to process their memories and their emotions, and confront their thoughts and beliefs, but they do not retraumatize Veterans.”
Veterans do not have to have all of the symptoms described above to be eligible for PTSD treatment. Veterans can request to be evaluated for PTSD and seek treatment if needed at any time. Veterans can call 1-800-214-1306 to make an appointment with their provider to discuss any symptoms that they may be experiencing.
Additionally, the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 to all Veterans. A PTSD diagnosis is not a requirement. Veterans struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or any other issues can call the Veterans Crisis Line at any time. Call 988, then press 1.
June is PTSD Awareness Month, but the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS) treats PTSD all year long. If you are a Veteran and you are interested in mental health care, please reach out. Mental health care is every bit as important as physical health care, and wounds of the mind are just as important – and as treatable as – wounds of the body.
Click here for our PSTD Awareness Podcast on “VAPIHCS Talk Story”
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