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"Transcend": initial outcomes from a posttraumatic stress disorder/substance abuse treatment program
B Donovan1, E Padin-Rivera, S Kowaliw
1Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Ohio 44141, USA. beverly.donovan@med.va.gov
Journal of Traumatic Stress
|January 5, 2002
Summary
This study developed a comprehensive program for combat veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse (SA). The integrated treatment significantly reduced PTSD and substance abuse symptoms, showing lasting effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Combat veterans frequently experience co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse (SA).
- Effective integrated treatment programs for this dual diagnosis are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a comprehensive, manualized treatment program for combat veterans with PTSD and SA.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of this integrated treatment using standardized outcome measures.
Main Methods:
- A group-focused program integrating cognitive-behavioral skills, constructivist theory, SA relapse prevention, and peer support.
- Assessment of 46 male patients using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) and Addiction Severity Index (ASI) at discharge and 6/12-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in PTSD symptoms (CAPS scores) were observed at discharge and follow-up.
- Significant reductions in substance abuse severity (ASI scores) were observed at discharge and follow-up.
- The integrated treatment demonstrated sustained effectiveness over 12 months.
Conclusions:
- The developed comprehensive treatment program is effective for combat veterans with co-occurring PTSD and SA.
- Integrated, group-focused interventions combining multiple therapeutic modalities show promise for this population.
- Further research is warranted to explore treatment mechanisms and optimize interventions.