Treatment of PTSD May not Be a Solo Affair

It appears that use of the term post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has risen sharply over the past few years. As talk of PTSD is spreading like wildfire, interest in treatment and research are on the rise as well. The acquisition of an APA-accredited internship is not only highly coveted for being the gold standard of doctoral internships, but it also opens the gates for practicing at Veterans Administration (VA) hospitals and clinics. While PTSD cases may be most widely recognized and treated among military combat veterans, it is a condition that can affect anyone. Notably, PTSD survivors often either are married or in a long-term relationship. Whether this attribute is related to the occurrence of PTSD is yet to be determined, though it is this relationship that can shape the treatment and outcome. New research is showing that integrating the patient’s spouse or significant other into the treatment plan can be mutually beneficial for both parties. According to Meis, et al. (2013): “Partner-involved or couple therapies may be especially helpful for correcting misperceptions about PTSD symptoms and improving relationship adjustment and partners’ support” (p. 7). Since the intimate relationship between a person suffering from PTSD and their significant other often is plagued with tension caused by the disorder, helping the significant other understand what their loved one is going through, what to expect, and how they can help aids in the therapy process. If a...
Source: Psych Central - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Tags: Disorders General Men's Issues Psychology Psychotherapy PTSD Relationships & Love Stress Treatment Women's Issues Interpersonal Relationship Intimate Relationship Partner Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychological trauma Sul Source Type: news