Client-driven solutions
The most important thing for a therapist to keep in mind, says Engel, is a course of therapy must be tailored to the individual. “What I work hard to do is help clinicians recognize that the first task is to identify what the client’s preferences and expectations are,” he says. Engel would like to see DoD develop a system that follows a client through an entire continuum of care, so treatment plans that might not be working can be changed quickly.
Medications, in conjunction with other types of therapy, can be very effective for PTSD. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as Paxil and Zoloft, can be helpful in reducing anxiety. Recently, a drug called Prazosin, normally used to treat high blood pressure, was found to reduce or eliminate nightmares for many with PTSD.
There also are many emerging nonstandard alternative treatments. One is adventure therapy, in which groups of veterans embark on Outward Bound-type wilderness excursions, where they once again work as a team in a cohesive unit, but this time without risk of enemy attack. Participants report an improved sense of confidence and the ability to better connect with others.
Whichever path is chosen, Engel notes, “the competent course is to seek assistance, whether it’s going to see your primary care doctor, a specialist, or a community resource. There are a lot of different ways to begin the journey. The key thing is to get started.”
MO
— Mark Cantrell is a freelance writer based in North Carolina. His last feature article for Military Officer was “Taking the High Ground,” March 2013.
JOIN THE DISCUSSION
Share your thoughts on or experiences with PTSD and traumatic brain injury. Log in to MOAA Connect, the association’s online community, at
connect.moaa.org and search for "PTSD discussion."
APRIL 2013 MILITARY OFFICER 89
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