PSTD Treatment of Joint Forces Operation Combatants: A Case Study

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Military Medicine
• Trauma Studies

Background:

• Military operations like the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO)/Joint Forces Operations (JFO) expose personnel to significant psychological trauma.
• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can profoundly impact military personnel's lives, relationships, and overall well-being.
• Effective psychotherapeutic interventions are crucial for addressing combat-related PTSD in military populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in alleviating PTSD symptoms.
• To assess the impact of ACT on the well-being of Ukrainian military personnel with combat-related PTSD.
• To explore the potential of ACT in fostering posttraumatic growth.

Main Methods:

• The study employed a psychological experiment as the primary research method.
• A case study method was utilized as an auxiliary research approach.
• The research focused on diagnosing and addressing psychological consequences of war by analyzing cognition, affect, and behavior.

Main Results:

• Combatants diagnosed with PTSD exhibit limitations in life activities, including behavioral control, work, and communication, suggesting classification as persons with disabilities.
• Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy, including attachment and acceptance therapy, demonstrates a significant advantage in overcoming PTSD.
• Acceptance and commitment therapy effectively alleviates PTSD symptoms and enhances the well-being of military personnel.

Conclusions:

• Military personnel with combat-related PTSD require specialized psychotherapeutic interventions.
• Attachment and acceptance therapy is an effective treatment for PTSD, facilitating the transformation of trauma into posttraumatic growth.
• Developing effective psychotherapeutic strategies is vital for the recovery of military personnel affected by combat operations.