An Internet-Based Therapeutic Tool for American Indian/Alaska Native Adults With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: User...

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Mental Health Interventions
• Indigenous Health

Background:

• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) disproportionately affects American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations.
• Primary care settings offer a feasible venue for trauma-focused interventions in AI/AN communities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility of a culturally adapted web-based therapeutic intervention for PTSD in AI/AN individuals.
• To develop and test a self-guided website providing psychoeducation and symptom management for PTSD.

Main Methods:

• A community-based participatory research approach was used to adapt the PTSD Coach Online platform.
• A 16-guide website, "Health is Our Tradition: Balance and Harmony after Trauma," was created.
• A feasibility pilot involved 24 AI/AN adults screened positive for PTSD, assessing website use, satisfaction, and effectiveness.

Main Results:

• The culturally adapted website and text message reminders were rated as satisfactory and effective.
• High rates of website use were reported at 6 (86%) and 12 (91%) weeks.
• Module completion varied, with psychoeducational guides showing higher completion than interactive ones.

Conclusions:

• The "Health is Our Tradition" website demonstrates feasibility and participant acceptance.
• The intervention shows promise as a tool for an effectiveness pilot study for PTSD in AI/AN populations.