New Study underway to examine PTSD and MBSR at the Seattle VA
Mar 3rd, 2009 by admin
from the seattlepi.com: “Local VA researchers seek volunteers for PTSD study” (link at http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/nowhearthis/archives/162933.asp)
“… the PTSD study seeks volunteers who are veterans with a previous medical diagnosis of PTSD, though they don’t have to be enrolled in the VA system for health care to participate.
The PTSD study involves a group psychological intervention called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, or MBSR for short, which more scientific literature indicates could significantly reduce stress and provide relief for veterans with PTSD.
The group intervention is currently being used by people with major depression, with the skills it teaches behind a 50 percent decrease in major depression relapses, VA official said.
The use of MBSR, however, has not been studied specifically for PTSD patients. One hope, VA officials say, it that the mental health benefits would include a decrease in relapses of depression, lessen emotional reactions, and potenitally lead to a decrease in substance abuse.
The program is taught by an MBSR-trained physician over eight weeks in a group of 25 to 30 patients. During meetings, participants learn to practice mindfulness skills like being in the present moment, paying better attention, being non-judgmental and using meditation and other stress and coping skills.
Classes start March 23 with a second session beginning in late May, and a third later in the summer.
There is no cost to veterans for the class and travel mileage will be reimbursed.
If you would like to participate in the PTSD study, call study coordinator Michelle Martinez at 206-277-1721 for more information.”
What is the status of this program? Have there been any evaluations of the effect of MBSR for PTSD?
Art