COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL THERAPY METHODS IN THE TREATMENT OF POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER AND THEIR ROLE IN MENTAL...

The mass traumatization of the population in Ukraine and numerous countries worldwide due to military actions, natural and artificial disasters, and violence creates challenges for the mental health care system, requiring evidence-based approaches to treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is recognized as a priority method of psychotherapeutic intervention for PTSD. However, the effectiveness of various CBT methods remains insufficiently studied regarding specific types of trauma and individual patient characteristics.

To systematically analyze modern CBT methods in treating PTSD and determine their role in restoring the mental health of patients with different types of traumatic events.

A comprehensive analytical synthesis and meta-analysis of scientific literature from 2019-2025 was conducted using PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases. The PRISMA 2020 methodology was applied to select 70 sources from the initial 212 publications. Risk of bias assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0 and AMSTAR-2. A quantitative meta-analysis of different CBT methods' effectiveness was conducted with calculation of standardized mean differences (Cohen's d) and 95% confidence intervals.

Quantitative integration of findings from 45 randomized controlled trials (n=4,267 participants) revealed remarkable effectiveness of CBT methods: prolonged exposure (d=1.24, 95% CI: 1.05-1.43), cognitive processing therapy (d=1.16, 95% CI: 0.98-1.34), trauma-focused CBT (d=1.08, 95% CI: 0.91-1.25). Treatment response rates were 68% for prolonged exposure, 64% for cognitive processing therapy, and 61% for standard CBT. The effectiveness of CBT methods depends on the type of traumatic event, demographic characteristics, and comorbidity. An individualized approach increases treatment effectiveness. Innovative CBT technologies (telemedicine, internet programs, mobile applications) and cultural adaptation of methods increase therapy effectiveness.

CBT methods are the priority choice in treating PTSD, affecting symptom reduction and improving quality of life. Their integration with other approaches increases the effectiveness of treating complex cases. Promising directions include research on neurobiological mechanisms, personalization of approaches, and the study of innovative technologies.