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Horn AJ, Cole S, Nazarloo HP, Nazarloo P, Davis JM, Carrier D, Bryan C, Carter CS. Severe PTSD is marked by reduced oxytocin and elevated vasopressin. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2024; 19:100236. [PMID: 38764609 PMCID: PMC11101686 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2024.100236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine analyses of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have generally focused on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis alterations. In the present analyses, we examine two additional neuroendocrine factors that have been previously implicated in biological stress responses: oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP). Here we examined basal neuropeptide status in military veterans clinically diagnosed with PTSD (n = 29) and in two non-traumatized comparison groups with previous stress exposure (n = 11 SWAT trainees and n = 21 ultramarathon runners). PTSD patients showed low levels of plasma OT and high levels of AVP. The ratio of AVP/OT robustly related to PTSD status, and emerged as a statistically plausible mediator of relationships between the number of personal traumatic experiences and subsequent PTSD symptom burden. Over the course of behavioral therapy for PTSD, measures of OT showed a significant but modest normalization. Plasma cortisol levels were not statistically different among the three groups. This study suggests that AVP/OT ratios may represent a neuroendocrine predictor of severe PTSD, as well as a potential treatment response biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Steve Cole
- UCLA School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | - John M. Davis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David Carrier
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Craig Bryan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - C. Sue Carter
- Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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2
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Bond AE, Houtsma C, Bryan CJ, Anestis MD. Self-Reported Likelihood of a Future Suicide Attempt: The Role of Plans for Suicide. Arch Suicide Res 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38526309 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2024.2332249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study seeks to add to the existing literature by determining if having a plan for suicide, is associated with an individual's self-reported likelihood of attempting suicide in the future. METHOD Data came from a sample of 97 United States Army personnel with past week ideation or lifetime attempt history. Assessments were collected at baseline, 1-month, 3-month, and 6-months. RESULTS Self-reported likelihood of attempting suicide in the future was not associated with the presence of a plan for suicide overall or a plan with a specific method (i.e., firearm, cutting/scratching, and medication). DISCUSSION Although a plan for suicide is commonly thought to indicate elevated risk our findings suggest that presence or absence of suicide plans is not associated with more self-reported likelihood of a future suicide attempt.
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Bryan CJ, Bryan AO, Khazem LR, Aase DM, Moreno JL, Ammendola E, Bauder CR, Hiser J, Daruwala SE, Baker JC. Crisis response planning rapidly reduces suicidal ideation among U.S. military veterans receiving massed cognitive processing therapy for PTSD. J Anxiety Disord 2024; 102:102824. [PMID: 38154445 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2023.102824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common among U.S. military veterans and is associated with increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Crisis response planning (CRP), a brief safety planning-type intervention, has been shown to rapidly reduce suicidal ideation and suicide attempts in emergency and acute care settings. CRP's effectiveness when combined with trauma-focused therapies remains unknown. In this randomized pragmatic clinical trial with one-year follow-up, 157 U.S. military personnel and veterans were randomly assigned to receive CRP or self-guided safety planning (SP) prior to beginning massed cognitive processing therapy (CPT) for PTSD. Among 51 (32.5 % of sample) participants endorsing suicidal ideation at baseline, reductions in the severity of suicidal ideation were significantly larger and faster in CRP (F(11,672)= 15.8, p < .001). Among 106 participants denying suicidal ideation at baseline, 8.5 % of CRP participants versus 11.9 % of SP participants (OR=0.69, 95 % CI=0.19-2.52) reported new-onset suicidal ideation during any follow-up assessment. PTSD symptoms significantly reduced over time with no differences between groups. Results support the effectiveness of CRP for rapidly reducing suicidal ideation and managing suicide risk during outpatient treatment for PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig J Bryan
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Columbus, OH, USA; VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Health Care System, Canandaigua, NY, USA.
| | - AnnaBelle O Bryan
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Lauren R Khazem
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Darrin M Aase
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jose L Moreno
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ennio Ammendola
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Christina Rose Bauder
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jaryd Hiser
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Samantha E Daruwala
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Columbus, OH, USA; VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Health Care System, Canandaigua, NY, USA
| | - Justin C Baker
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Columbus, OH, USA
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4
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Sciarrino NA, Myers US. If it's offered, will they come? Practical considerations when offering intensive PTSD treatment in an outpatient Veterans Affairs PTSD clinic. Bull Menninger Clin 2023; 87:46-62. [PMID: 36856477 DOI: 10.1521/bumc.2023.87.1.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Evidence-based psychotherapies (EBPs) for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are efficacious; however, treatment dropout remains high. The delivery of intensive EBPs for PTSD (i.e., sessions three times per week or more) and telemental health may address barriers impacting dropout. Current evidence for intensive EBPs comes primarily from programs specifically designed for this level of care. Therefore, the feasibility of delivering intensive EBPs for PTSD in traditional outpatient clinics remains unclear. The aim of this pilot study was to identify veteran level of interest in intensive treatment and explore the feasibility of delivering intensive treatment via telemental health in an outpatient PTSD clinic at a Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital. One provider offered intensive treatment to 14 veterans. Three of the veterans initiated intensive treatment and completed with benefit. Veteranand system-level barriers, as well as veteran preferences for initiating intensive therapy and suggestions for implementing intensive EBPs in a routine outpatient clinic, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A Sciarrino
- The Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, and in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Military Sciences Division, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina. Dr
| | - Ursula S Myers
- The Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, and in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Military Sciences Division, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina. Dr.,The Charleston Health Equity and Rural Outreach Innovation Center (HEROIC), Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina
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Burback L, Dhaliwal R, Reeson M, Erick T, Hartle K, Chow E, Vouronikos G, Antunes N, Marshall T, Kennedy M, Dennett L, Greenshaw A, Smith-MacDonald L, Winkler O. Trauma focused psychotherapy in patients with suicidal ideation: A scoping review. CURRENT RESEARCH IN BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.crbeha.2023.100102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
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6
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Hoppen TH, Kip A, Morina N. Are psychological interventions for adult PTSD more efficacious and acceptable when treatment is delivered in higher frequency? A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Anxiety Disord 2023; 95:102684. [PMID: 36827748 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2023.102684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Two systematic reviews indicated that higher treatment frequency of psychological interventions for adult PTSD may lead to higher efficacy and less dropout. Yet, a quantitative review is missing. METHODS We conducted a thorough systematic literature search and included trials meeting the following criteria: a) random allocation, 2) PTSD was primary treatment focus, 3) ≥ 70% interview-based PTSD rate 4) mean age ≥ 18 years, and 5) N ≥ 20. Treatment session frequency was analyzed dichotomously (< 1.5 vs. ≥ 1.5 sessions/week) and continuously (sessions per week & minutes per week). RESULTS A total of 160 RCTs with data from 10,556 patients were included. Analyses yielded similar treatment efficacy irrespective of treatment frequency definitions and whether differential efficacy was estimated directly via head-to-head trials or indirectly via comparisons to the same comparison group. Intense (≥ 1.5 sessions/week) vs. standard (< 1.5 sessions/week) delivery was, however, associated with significantly lower dropout rates (as a proxy for acceptability) for trauma-focused interventions (18.64% vs 11.54%, respectively, p = .024), but not for non-trauma-focused interventions. CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence for differential treatment efficacy of intense vs. standard psychotherapies for adult PTSD. Evidence for increased acceptability was found for intense vs. standard trauma-focused interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thole H Hoppen
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
| | - Ahlke Kip
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Nexhmedin Morina
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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7
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LoSavio ST, Holder N, Wells SY, Resick PA. Clinician Concerns About Cognitive Processing Therapy: A Review of the Evidence. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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8
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ELBARAZI A, BADARY OA, ELMAZAR MM, ELRASSAS H. Cognitive Processing Therapy Versus Medication for the Treatment of Comorbid Substance Use Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Egyptian patients (Randomized Clinical Trial). JOURNAL OF EVIDENCE-BASED PSYCHOTHERAPIES 2022. [DOI: 10.24193/jebp.2022.2.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
"Earlier research has established that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) frequently coexist. Aims: Cognitive Processing Therapy was compared to Sertraline and a placebo in an RCT for treating patients with comorbid SUD and PTSD. Methods: 150 patients with SUD and PTSD were interviewed by clinicians and asked to fill out the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-5), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), Timeline Follow Back Interview (TLFB), and Brief Addiction Monitor (BAM). Patients were randomly assigned to the following conditions: CPT (n=50), Sertraline (n=50), or Placebo (n=50). Pretreatment, posttreatment, six and, twelve-month follow-up assessments were conducted. Results: When compared to the sertraline group, CPT resulted in much higher reductions in CAPS scores at posttreatment assessment (d=0.93, p < .000). When compared to the control group, CPT considerably reduced PTSD symptoms (the effect size, d=1.9, p < .000). Sertraline resulted in many significant decreases in CAPS when compared to control groups (the effect size , d=1.11, p<.000). At posttreatment, SUD and depression severity were significantly reduced in both CPT and Sertraline groups. After six and twelve months of follow-up, these differences persisted. Conclusion: Comparatively to the control group, CPT and Sertraline significantly decreased PTSD, SUD, and depression."
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Held P, Kovacevic M, Petrey K, Meade EA, Pridgen S, Montes M, Werner B, Miller ML, Smith DL, Kaysen D, Karnik NS. Treating posttraumatic stress disorder at home in a single week using 1-week virtual massed cognitive processing therapy. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:1215-1225. [PMID: 35338534 PMCID: PMC9357038 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatments are increasingly delivered in massed formats and have shown comparable results to standard, weekly treatment. To date, massed cognitive processing therapy (CPT), delivered daily, has been delivered primarily in combination with adjunctive services and among veteran populations, but it has not been rigorously evaluated as a standalone intervention. The present study evaluated 1-week massed CPT delivered virtually (i.e., via telehealth) to a community sample of trauma-exposed individuals (N = 24). Using a single-arm open-label design, participants received CPT twice per day for 5 days. The results indicated that most participants completed treatment (n = 23, 95.8%), and no adverse events were reported. Participants exhibited large reductions in clinician-rated, d = 2.01, and self-reported PTSD symptoms, d = 2.55, as well as self-reported depressive symptoms, d = 1.46. On average, participants reported a 5-point PTSD symptom reduction and 1-point reduction in depressive symptoms for each treatment day. Reductions in PTSD and depressive symptoms were maintained at 3-month follow-up. Overall, 1-week massed CPT delivered virtually was shown to be feasible and to result in rapid symptom reductions that were sustained over time. Virtual massed CPT has the potential to increase access to effective treatments and help trauma survivors restore aspects of their lives in short amounts of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Held
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesRush University Medical CenterIllinoisUSA
| | - Merdijana Kovacevic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesRush University Medical CenterIllinoisUSA
| | - Kelsey Petrey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesRush University Medical CenterIllinoisUSA
| | - Enya A. Meade
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesRush University Medical CenterIllinoisUSA
| | - Sarah Pridgen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesRush University Medical CenterIllinoisUSA
| | - Mauricio Montes
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesRush University Medical CenterIllinoisUSA
| | - Brianna Werner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesRush University Medical CenterIllinoisUSA
| | - Michelle L. Miller
- Department of PsychiatryIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Dale L. Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesRush University Medical CenterIllinoisUSA,Department of Behavioral SciencesOlivet Nazarene UniversityBourbonnaisIllinoisUSA
| | - Debra Kaysen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesStanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA,National Center for PTSDVA Palo Alto Health Care SystemPalo AltoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Niranjan S. Karnik
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesRush University Medical CenterIllinoisUSA
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10
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Clinical and Administrative Insights From Delivering Massed Trauma-Focused Therapy to Service Members and Veterans. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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11
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Bryan CJ, Russell HA, Bryan AO, Rozek DC, Leifker FR, Rugo KF, Baker JC, Khazem LR, Roberge EM, Shirley DM, Asnaani A. Impact of Treatment Setting and Format on Symptom Severity Following Cognitive Processing Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Behav Ther 2022; 53:673-685. [PMID: 35697430 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2022.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Preliminary data suggest cognitive processing therapy (CPT) significantly reduces posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity among military personnel and veterans when delivered over 12 days and combined with daily recreational activities (Bryan et al., 2018). The present study aimed to examine how therapy pace (i.e., daily vs. weekly sessions) and setting (i.e., clinic vs. recreational) impacts change in PTSD symptom severity. Forty-five military personnel and veterans diagnosed with PTSD chose to receive CPT (a) daily at a recreational facility with recreational programming, (b) daily on a university campus without recreational programming, and (c) weekly on a university campus without recreational programming. PTSD symptom severity was assessed with the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) and the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). Reductions in CAPS-5 and PCL-5 scores were large and statistically significant across all three settings (Cohen's ds > 2.1). As compared to reductions in CAPS-5 and PCL-5 scores in daily therapy at a recreational facility (CAPS-5: d = 1.63-2.40; PCL-5: d = 1.99-2.17), reductions in CAPS-5 and PCL-5 scores were significantly larger in daily therapy on campus, CAPS-5: t(80) = -2.9, p = .005, d = 2.23-2.69; PCL-5: t(78) = 2.6, p = .010, d = 2.54-4.43, but not weekly therapy on campus, CAPS-5: t(80) = 0.2, p = .883, d = 1.04-2.47; PCL-5: t(78) = 1.0, p = .310, d = 1.77-3.44. Participants receiving daily therapy on campus and weekly therapy on campus also had higher rates of clinically significant improvement and good end-state functioning. Results support the effectiveness of CPT across multiple treatment settings and formats and suggest that daily CPT may be less effective when delivered in combination with recreational activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig J Bryan
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and VISN 2 Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Erika M Roberge
- The University of Utah and VA Salt Lake City Health Care System
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12
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Kehle-Forbes SM, Ackland PE, Spoont MR, Meis LA, Orazem RJ, Lyon A, Valenstein-Mah HR, Schnurr PP, Zickmund SL, Foa EB, Chard KM, Alpert E, Polusny MA. Divergent experiences of U.S. veterans who did and did not complete trauma-focused therapies for PTSD: A national qualitative study of treatment dropout. Behav Res Ther 2022; 154:104123. [PMID: 35644083 PMCID: PMC9873271 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2022.104123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Prolonged Exposure (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) are first-line treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and have been disseminated throughout the U.S. Veterans Health Administration. Treatment non-completion is common and lessens clinical effectiveness; however, prior work has failed to identify factors consistently associated with non-completion. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a national sample of veterans who recently completed (n = 60) or did not complete (n = 66) PE or CPT. Non-completer interviews focused on factors that contributed to veterans' decisions to drop out and efforts undertaken to complete PE/CPT. Completer interviews focused on challenges faced in completing treatment and facilitators of completion. Transcripts were coded using a mixed deductive/inductive approach; constant comparison was used to identify differences between completers and non-completers. Completers and non-completers differed in the extent of treatment-specific therapist support received, therapists' flexibility in treatment delivery, the type of encouragement offered by the care team and social supports, their interpretation of symptom worsening, the perceived impact of treatment on functioning, and the impact of stressors on their treatment engagement. Treatment-specific therapist support, more patient-centered and flexible treatment delivery, leveraging the full care team, and addressing functional concerns are potential targets for PE and CPT engagement interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M. Kehle-Forbes
- Center for Care Delivery & Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA,Women’s Health Sciences Division at VA Boston, National Center for PTSD, 150 S Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02130, USA,University of Minnesota, Department of Medicine, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA,Corresponding author. Center for Care Delivery & Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA. (S.M. Kehle-Forbes)
| | - Princess E. Ackland
- Center for Care Delivery & Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA,University of Minnesota, Department of Medicine, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Michele R. Spoont
- Center for Care Delivery & Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA,University of Minnesota, Department of Medicine, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA,National Center for PTSD, Pacific Islands Division, 459 Patterson Rd, Honolulu, HI, 96819, USA
| | - Laura A. Meis
- Center for Care Delivery & Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA,University of Minnesota, Department of Medicine, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Robert J. Orazem
- Center for Care Delivery & Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Alexandra Lyon
- Center for Care Delivery & Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Helen R. Valenstein-Mah
- Center for Care Delivery & Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Paula P. Schnurr
- National Center for PTSD, Department of Veterans Affairs, 163 Veterans Dr, White River Junction, VT, 05009, USA,Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, 1 Rope Ferry Rd, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Susan L. Zickmund
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement & Analytic Sciences Center, Salt Lake City VA, 500 S Foothill Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Edna B. Foa
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, 6th Gateway, 3535 Market St, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Kathleen M. Chard
- Cincinnati VA Medical Center, 3200 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH, 45220, USA
| | - Elizabeth Alpert
- Women’s Health Sciences Division at VA Boston, National Center for PTSD, 150 S Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02130, USA
| | - Melissa A. Polusny
- Center for Care Delivery & Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA,University of Minnesota, Department of Psychiatry, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
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13
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Intensive Cognitive Processing Therapy Associated With Reduced PTSD Treatment Dropout in a Case-Controlled Study of Treatment-Seeking Veterans. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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14
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Yamokoski C, Barron S, Fowler J, Fast E, Flores H. Barriers and Facilitators to the Implementation of Intensive Treatments for PTSD: Early Lessons Learned From the Field. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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15
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Cognitive Processing Therapy Delivered in 5 Days via Telehealth to a Gay Latino Adolescent: A Clinical Case Study. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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16
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Rozek DC, Baker SN, Rugo KF, Steigerwald VL, Sippel LM, Holliday R, Roberge EM, Held P, Mota N, Smith NB. Addressing co-occurring suicidal thoughts and behaviors and posttraumatic stress disorder in evidence-based psychotherapies for adults: A systematic review. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:729-745. [PMID: 34973046 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a well-established risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Historically, guidelines for treating PTSD have recommended against the use of trauma-focused therapies for patients who are at high risk for suicide, likely due to concerns about potential suicide-related iatrogenesis, specifically the "triggering" of suicidal behaviors. This systematic review examined evidence of the impact of treatments specifically designed to treat PTSD or suicide on both PTSD- and suicide-related outcomes. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and a total of 33 articles met the full inclusion criteria: 23 examining PTSD treatments, four examining suicide-focused treatments, and six examining combined treatments. PTSD and combined treatments reduced both PTSD- and suicide-related outcomes, with most studies focusing on cognitive processing therapy or prolonged exposure. Suicide-focused treatments (e.g., cognitive therapies for suicide prevention) also reduced suicide-related outcomes, but the findings were mixed for their impact on PTSD-related outcomes. Overall, PTSD treatments had the most support, primarily due to a larger number of studies examining their outcomes. This supports current clinical guidelines, which suggest utilizing PTSD treatments for individuals who have PTSD and are at risk for suicide. Suicide-focused and combined treatments also appeared to be promising formats, although additional research is needed. Future research should seek to compare the effectiveness of the approaches to the treatment of PTSD and suicidal thoughts and behaviors concurrently as well as to inform guidelines aimed at supporting decisions about the selection of an appropriate treatment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Rozek
- UCF RESTORES and Department of Psychology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Shelby N Baker
- UCF RESTORES and Department of Psychology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Kelsi F Rugo
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Victoria L Steigerwald
- UCF RESTORES and Department of Psychology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Lauren M Sippel
- National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, Vermont, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Ryan Holliday
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Veteran Suicide Prevention, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Erika M Roberge
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,George E. Wahlen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Philip Held
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Illinois, USA
| | - Natalie Mota
- Departments of Clinical Health Psychology and Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Noelle B Smith
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, West Haven, Connecticut, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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17
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Oakey-Frost DN, Harris JA, May AM, Bryan AO, Tucker RP, Bryan CJ. Internal entrapment and fearlessness about death as precipitants of suicidal thoughts and planning in the context of post-traumatic stress disorder. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2022; 52:147-158. [PMID: 34738655 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB) has been extensively studied but explanatory mechanisms remain inconclusive. Entrapment is one variable that evinces a mechanistic relationship with PTSD and STB. The current study examined the indirect effect of PTSD screen on suicide ideation (SI), planning, and likelihood of future suicide attempt through internal (IE) and external entrapment (EE), moderated by levels of fearlessness about death (FAD). METHOD The cross-sectional sample consisted of military service members and civilians recruited from primary care clinics across the United States (N = 2690). RESULTS Moderated mediation models indicated an indirect relationship between a positive PTSD screen, past-month SI, and past-month suicide planning through IE but not EE at low, moderate, and high levels of FAD. These relationships were replicated for the association between positive PTSD screen and concurrent self-rated likelihood of a future suicide attempt through both IE and EE at moderate and high levels of FAD. CONCLUSIONS Phenomenological implications are discussed, including IE as a mechanism of action in the PTSD/SI pathway and FAD as necessary to potentiate suicidal planning for those experiencing IE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia A Harris
- College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Alexis M May
- Department of Psychology, Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, USA
| | - AnnaBelle O Bryan
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Craig J Bryan
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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18
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Roberge EM, Harris JA, Weinstein HR, Rozek DC. Treating Veterans at Risk for Suicide: An Examination of the Safety, Tolerability, and Outcomes of Cognitive Processing Therapy. J Trauma Stress 2021; 34:1228-1237. [PMID: 33650171 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors; however, clinicians often report apprehension about recommending trauma-focused therapy to patients with an increased risk of suicide. The present study aimed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and response to cognitive processing therapy (CPT) among a sample of military veterans with PTSD and increased suicide risk. A secondary aim was to provide a clinically useful definition of high suicide risk. Chart review was used to classify the suicide risk level of 290 veterans who participated in CPT at a Veterans Affairs clinic. Treatment outcomes in veterans with different suicide risk levels were also gathered and compared. Over 50% (n = 155) of the sample demonstrated increased suicide risk, and 1.0% (n = 3) engaged in suicidal behavior after initiating treatment. To date, hospital records show no suicide deaths since 2016 among clinic patients who received CPT. Suicide risk level was not associated with CPT tolerability, and PTSD symptom change was equivalent across groups, ps = .085-.976. Veterans across groups reported clinically significant reductions in PTSD symptoms. The tested suicide risk categorization schemes performed similarly in differentiating the odds of CPT completion and PTSD symptom reduction. These results suggest that veterans with PTSD and an increased risk of suicide, including those with previous suicide attempts and current ideation, can tolerate and benefit from CPT. Additional variables must be considered to truly determine the acute and imminent suicide risk that would deem CPT to be contraindicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika M Roberge
- George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Julia A Harris
- George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Harrison R Weinstein
- George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - David C Rozek
- University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
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19
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Held P, Klassen BJ, Coleman JA, Thompson K, Rydberg TS, Van Horn R. Delivering Intensive PTSD Treatment Virtually: The Development of a 2-Week Intensive Cognitive Processing Therapy-Based Program in Response to COVID-19. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2021; 28:543-554. [PMID: 34629839 PMCID: PMC8488183 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2020.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Of the many vulnerable groups affected by the spread of COVID-19, veterans have been especially impacted by the pandemic. Beginning in March 2020, nationwide shelter-in-place orders rapidly led to widespread job loss and economic upheaval; disruption and breakdown of multiple support systems; and increases in family stress, all of which may exacerbate underlying PTSD symptoms. Although telehealth has proven an effective means of delivering evidence-based psychotherapies for PTSD, little is known about the delivery of these treatments in an intensive, daily format over telehealth. There is growing need for intensive treatment options to reduce treatment-interfering barriers such as high dropout rates. In order to address this gap in the literature, this paper details several design considerations as well as patient selection procedures for a 2-week virtual intensive treatment program (vITP) for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), consisting of daily individual Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and other adjunctive interventions. We also describe two cases of veterans who successfully completed the vITP including their clinical outcomes, therapist reflections on the process, feedback regarding the program, as well as challenges patients encountered with the telehealth platform. Intensive evidence-based psychotherapy for PTSD delivered through a virtual format seems to show promise, but more systemic research is needed.
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20
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Held P, Smith DL, Bagley JM, Kovacevic M, Steigerwald VL, Van Horn R, Karnik NS. Treatment response trajectories in a three-week CPT-Based intensive treatment for veterans with PTSD. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 141:226-232. [PMID: 34246978 PMCID: PMC8364877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Response to weekly evidence-based PTSD treatments varies. Little is known about response trajectories and predictors in intensive PTSD treatments. This study sought to identify different trajectories of symptom change among veterans who completed a 3-week CPT-based intensive PTSD treatment program and examined potential predictors of trajectory group membership. Four hundred fifty-two veterans completed the program. Demographics, PTSD and depression severity, negative posttrauma cognitions, and alcohol use were assessed at intake and evaluated as possible predictors of group membership. Group based trajectory modeling was used to determine distinct groups based on PTSD symptom trajectory over the course of treatment, as well as predictors of group membership. Four distinct treatment trajectories were identified: Fast responders (15.3%), steady responders (32.0%), partial responders (38.4%), and minimal responders (14.4%). Fast and steady responders reported substantial symptom reductions and dropped below the "probable PTSD" threshold, with fast responders achieving improvements after just one week of treatment. Partial responders experienced clinically significant reductions but remained above the "probable PTSD" threshold. Minimal responders reported the highest baseline PTSD symptoms and changed the least throughout treatment. Negative posttrauma cognitions as well as self-reported and clinician-rated PTSD symptom severity assessed at intake successfully predicted trajectory membership. The identified trajectories closely resemble findings in the limited existing literature on intensive PTSD treatment trajectories. Results suggest that some individuals may improve with even shorter interventions and others might benefit from additional treatment sessions. Overall, findings support the importance of evaluating individual- and group-level treatment responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Held
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, IL, USA.
| | - Dale L Smith
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Olivet Nazarene University, IL, USA
| | - Jenna M Bagley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, IL, USA
| | - Merdijana Kovacevic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, IL, USA
| | - Victoria L Steigerwald
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, IL, USA
| | - Rebecca Van Horn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, IL, USA
| | - Niranjan S Karnik
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, IL, USA
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21
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Bettmann JE, Prince KC, Ganesh K, Rugo KF, Bryan AO, Bryan CJ, Rozek DC, Leifker FR. The effect of time outdoors on veterans receiving treatment for PTSD. J Clin Psychol 2021; 77:2041-2056. [PMID: 33899932 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Duration, frequency, and intensity of nature exposure link to different physical and psychological benefits. The present study aimed to determine how time outdoors affected military veterans' posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomology during PTSD treatment. METHOD Hypotheses regarding time outdoors and the effect of program duration on PTSD symptoms were examined using multilevel models. The authors hypothesized that hours outdoors, both within- and between-persons, would predict reduced PTSD symptomology, program duration would predict reduced PTSD symptomology, and that hours outdoors and program duration would be significant when accounting for the other. RESULTS The present study found that time outdoors correlated with participants' decreased PTSD symptomology: the more time participants spent outdoors, the greater the reduction in their PTSD symptoms. CONCLUSION The effect of time outdoors was significant within-person, not between persons, suggesting that nature exposure may be used as an adjunct to traditional mental health treatment where exposure or dosage should be person-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kelsi F Rugo
- The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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22
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Hoyt T, Shumaker BES. Disability Status Attenuates Treatment Effects in an Intensive Outpatient Program for PTSD. Mil Med 2021; 186:190-197. [PMID: 33499524 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usaa394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The utilization of intensive outpatient programs for the treatment of military-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has increased through initiatives both inside and outside the military health care system. However, research in veteran populations suggest that patients concurrently undergoing disability evaluation may not respond well to such interventions. This study evaluates the relationship between disability separation and endorsement of PTSD symptoms during treatment at an intensive outpatient program. METHODS Patients in this retrospective study were 81 service members enrolled in a half-day, 6-week intensive outpatient program for PTSD. Sixty-seven percent (n = 54) were concurrently enrolled in the integrated disability evaluation system and were pending medical separation. Fifty-two percent (n = 42) also received a 4-week skills training intervention before beginning PTSD treatment. Patients completed the PTSD Checklist before, during, and after the treatment program as an index of PTSD symptoms. RESULTS A significant interaction effect was observed in which PTSD symptoms throughout program enrollment differed as a function of enrollment in the integrated disability evaluation system. Patients undergoing disability evaluations did not show significant changes in endorsed PTSD symptoms during program enrollment, whereas significant decreases in PTSD symptoms were observed in patients not undergoing disability evaluations. These effects controlled for lost treatment days as a result of training or other appointments. CONCLUSIONS These results provide preliminary data indicating that participation in disability separation may attenuate the effect of PTSD treatment and endorsement of PTSD symptoms in an intensive outpatient setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Hoyt
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
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23
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Moore BA, Pujol L, Waltman S, Shearer DS. Management of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in Veterans and Military Service Members: A Review of Pharmacologic and Psychotherapeutic Interventions Since 2016. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2021; 23:9. [PMID: 33404798 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-020-01220-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW It is vitally important that providers treating post-traumatic stress disorder continue to stay abreast of research advances in the treatment of this disorder. This article updates the reader about advances in research in PTSD treatment in the past four years as well as the evolving recommendations of clinical practice guidelines. RECENT FINDINGS One of the most important developments is that trauma-focused therapy (TFT) has emerged as the first-line treatment for PTSD with pharmacologic options often being noted as second-line or adjunctive. The quality and quantity of research into the treatment of PTSD continue to grow; however, the pace of research into treatment options lags behind our understanding of the development, course, and prognosis of the disorder. The development of new research-based evidence in the treatment of PTSD, both pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic, is needed and likely to necessitate frequent updates and re-evaluations of clinical practice guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bret A Moore
- Warrior Resiliency Program, U.S. Army Regional Health Command, 7800 IH-10 West, Suite 300, San Antonio, TX, 78230, USA.
| | - Lynette Pujol
- Warrior Resiliency Program, U.S. Army Regional Health Command, 7800 IH-10 West, Suite 300, San Antonio, TX, 78230, USA
| | - Scott Waltman
- Warrior Resiliency Program, U.S. Army Regional Health Command, 7800 IH-10 West, Suite 300, San Antonio, TX, 78230, USA
| | - David S Shearer
- Department of Family Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, USA
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24
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Angelakis S, Weber N, Nixon RDV. Comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder and major depressive disorder: The usefulness of a sequential treatment approach within a randomised design. J Anxiety Disord 2020; 76:102324. [PMID: 33137600 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2020.102324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Behavioural Activation Therapy (BA) were used to treat individuals with comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Fifty-two individuals (48 women, 4 men) were randomized to CPT alone (n = 18), CPT then BA for MDD (n = 17), or BA then CPT (n = 17). Presenting trauma was primarily interpersonal (87 %). Participants were assessed at pre-, posttreatment, and 6-month follow-up. PTSD and MDD symptoms were the main outcome of interest; trauma cognitions, rumination, and emotional numbing were secondary outcomes. All groups showed sizeable reductions in PTSD and depression (effect sizes at follow-up ranging between 1.02-2.54). A pattern of findings indicated CPT/BA showed better outcomes in terms of larger effect sizes and loss of diagnoses relative to CPT alone and BA/CPT. At follow-up greater numbers of the CPT/BA group were estimated to have achieved good end-state for remission of both PTSD and depression (49 %, CI95 [.26, .73]) relative to CPT alone (18 %, CI95 [.03, .38]) and BA/CPT (11 %, CI95 [.01, .29]). Although tempered by the modest sample size, the findings suggest that individuals with comorbid PTSD and MDD may benefit from having PTSD targeted first before remaining MDD symptoms are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Angelakis
- School of Psychology, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Nathan Weber
- School of Psychology, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Reginald D V Nixon
- School of Psychology, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
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25
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Held P, Zalta AK, Smith DL, Bagley JM, Steigerwald VL, Boley RA, Miller M, Brennan MB, Van Horn R, Pollack MH. Maintenance of treatment gains up to 12-months following a three-week cognitive processing therapy-based intensive PTSD treatment programme for veterans. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2020; 11:1789324. [PMID: 33029327 PMCID: PMC7473322 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2020.1789324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intensive treatment programmes (ITPs) have shown promise for reducing PTSD and depression symptoms. It is still unknown whether treatment gains are maintained following completion. OBJECTIVE This study examined whether veterans were able to maintain treatment gains for up to 12 months after an ITP for PTSD and whether reductions in negative posttrauma cognitions predicted treatment gain maintenance. METHODS 209 veterans (62.7% male, mean age = 40.86 years) completed a 3-week, CPT-based ITP for PTSD. Participants' PTSD (PCL-5) and depression (PHQ-9) symptoms were assessed at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up timepoints. RESULTS Despite small symptom increases from post-treatment to 3-month follow-up, significant and clinically meaningful reductions in PTSD and depression symptoms were reported from intake to 12 months follow-up (averaging >18 points on the PCL-5 and >6 points on the PHQ-9; d = 1.28, and d = 1.18, respectively). Greater reductions in negative posttrauma cognitions during treatment were associated with lower PTSD (p <.001) and depression (p =.005) severity at follow-up. Most veterans who completed the aftercare survey followed treatment recommendations and reported seeing a mental health provider at 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-treatment. Aftercare treatment did not significantly predict whether veterans maintained treatment gains at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Overall maintenance of treatment gains long-term suggests veterans may be able to apply skills acquired during the ITP following treatment. These findings further support the feasibility and effectiveness of intensive, trauma-focused, evidence-based therapy delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Held
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alyson K. Zalta
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Dale L. Smith
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnais, IL, USA
| | - Jenna M. Bagley
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Randy A. Boley
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michelle Miller
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael B. Brennan
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rebecca Van Horn
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mark H. Pollack
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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26
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Sciarrino NA, Warnecke AJ, Teng EJ. A Systematic Review of Intensive Empirically Supported Treatments for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. J Trauma Stress 2020; 33:443-454. [PMID: 32598561 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Various clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have consistently identified two frontline evidence-based psychotherapies (EBPs)-prolonged exposure (PE) and cognitive processing therapy (CPT)-as well as other empirically supported treatments (EST), such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and cognitive therapy for PTSD (CT for PTSD). However, researchers and clinicians continue to be concerned with rates of symptom improvement and patient dropout within these treatments. Recent attempts to address these issues have resulted in intensive, or "massed," treatments for PTSD. Due to variability among intensive treatments, including treatment delivery format, fidelity to the EST, and the population studied, we conducted a systematic review to summarize and integrate the literature on the impact of intensive treatments on PTSD symptoms. A review of four major databases, with no restrictions regarding publication date, yielded 11 studies that met all inclusion criteria. The individual study findings denoted a large impact of treatment on reduction of PTSD symptoms, ds = 1.15-2.93, and random-effects modeling revealed a large weighted mean effect of treatment, d = 1.57, 95% CI [1.24, 1.91]. Results from intensive treatments also noted high rates of treatment completion (i.e., 0%-13.6% dropout; 5.51% pooled dropout rate across studies). The findings suggest that intensive delivery of these treatments can be an effective alternative to standard delivery and contribute to improved treatment response and reduced treatment dropout.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ellen J Teng
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,South Central Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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27
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Holliday R, Smith NB, Holder N, Gross GM, Monteith LL, Maguen S, Hoff RA, Harpaz-Rotem I. Comparing the effectiveness of VA residential PTSD treatment for veterans who do and do not report a history of MST: A national investigation. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 122:42-47. [PMID: 31923834 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2019.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has implemented initiatives to promote veterans' recovery from the health sequelae of military sexual trauma (MST), including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). MST can impact emotion regulation, interpersonal functioning, and perceptions of trust and safety, as well as increase risk for psychiatric comorbidity, which may impede PTSD treatment.. VA PTSD Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs (RRTPs) may facilitate the therapeutic process by offering increased structure, support, and adjunctive services. Limited research has examined the effect of MST on PTSD RRTP outcomes. Utilizing data from 7918 men and women veterans participating in a VA PTSD RRTP, the impact of the experience of MST on rates of program completion and changes in PTSD symptoms during and after treatment were examined. Rates of program completion were similar between those who did and did not report experiencing MST. Multilevel modeling was utilized to examine the impact of MST on PTSD symptoms after accounting for gender, age, race/ethnicity, and program completion. MST survivors endorsed more severe PTSD symptoms at admission; however, PTSD symptom severity scores were similar to those who did not report experiencing MST by discharge. Additionally, MST survivors had larger initial reductions in PTSD symptoms, followed by a greater recurrence of PTSD symptoms over time, compared to those who did not report experiencing MST. MST survivors appear able to participate in and benefit from PTSD RRTPs. Nonetheless, the increased recurrence of PTSD symptoms following discharge from residential treatment indicates the need for strategies to maintain post-treatment gains among MST survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Holliday
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, USA; University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, USA
| | - Noelle B Smith
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, USA.
| | - Nicholas Holder
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, USA; Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, USA; University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, USA
| | - Georgina M Gross
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, USA
| | - Lindsey L Monteith
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, USA; University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, USA
| | - Shira Maguen
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, USA; Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, USA; University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, USA
| | - Rani A Hoff
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, USA; VA National Center for PTSD, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, USA
| | - Ilan Harpaz-Rotem
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, USA; VA National Center for PTSD, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, USA
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28
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Smith NB, Sippel LM, Rozek DC, Spangler PT, Traber D, Straud C, Hoff R, Harpaz-Rotem I. Courses of suicidal ideation among military veterans in residential treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder. Depress Anxiety 2020; 37:273-284. [PMID: 31951318 PMCID: PMC7054126 DOI: 10.1002/da.22993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicidal thoughts are common among veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and correlates of four courses of suicidal (SI) among veterans receiving residential PTSD treatment. METHODS A total of 1,807 veterans receiving residential PTSD treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities who completed self-report measures at admission and discharge were included. RESULTS The prevalence of SI courses were No SI (33.6%), Remitted SI (23.0%), SI onset (6.0%), and Chronic SI (37.4%). There were group differences between the four SI courses in PTSD symptoms at baseline, magnitude of PTSD symptom change during treatment, race/ethnicity and baseline depression, substance use, physical functioning, and pain. Chronic SI was associated with highest baseline PTSD, depression, substance use, pain and worse physical functioning. Remitted SI course was associated with greatest pre-posttreatment PTSD improvement, followed by No SI, Chronic SI, and SI Onset. Multinomial logistic regressions revealed that PTSD symptom improvement and baseline PTSD symptoms most consistently related to symptomatic SI courses compared to less symptomatic or No SI courses. Receipt of trauma-focused psychotherapy (none, some, or adequate) and length of stay were not related to SI courses and did not differ between groups. CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate that treating PTSD symptoms could be impactful for reducing suicidal thoughts. Although many veterans had remitted or reduced severity of SI at discharge, a significant proportion of veterans reported SI at discharge (43.4%), potentially highlighting the need for suicide specific treatment interventions within the context of PTSD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle B. Smith
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, West Haven, CT, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lauren M. Sippel
- National Center for PTSD Executive Division, White River Junction, VT, USA
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Psychiatry, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - David C. Rozek
- UCF RESTORES & Department of Psychology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Patricia T. Spangler
- Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, Uniformed Service University, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Delphine Traber
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, LIP/PC2S, Grenoble, France
| | - Casey Straud
- University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, Department of Psychiatry, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Rani Hoff
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, West Haven, CT, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, USA
- National Center for PTSD, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ilan Harpaz-Rotem
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, West Haven, CT, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, USA
- National Center for PTSD, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
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29
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van Toorenburg MM, Sanches SA, Linders B, Rozendaal L, Voorendonk EM, Van Minnen A, De Jongh A. Do emotion regulation difficulties affect outcome of intensive trauma-focused treatment of patients with severe PTSD? Eur J Psychotraumatol 2020; 11:1724417. [PMID: 32166007 PMCID: PMC7054933 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2020.1724417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is ongoing debate as to whether emotion regulation problems should be improved first in order to profit from trauma-focused treatment, or will diminish after successful trauma processing. Objective: To enhance our understanding about the importance of emotion regulation difficulties in relation to treatment outcomes of trauma-focused therapy of adult patients with severe PTSD, whereby we made a distinction between people who reported sexual abuse before the age of 12, those who were 12 years or older at the onset of the abuse, individuals who met the criteria for the dissociative subtype of PTSD, and those who did not. Methods: Sixty-two patients with severe PTSD were treated using an intensive eight-day treatment programme, combining two first-line trauma-focused treatments for PTSD (i.e. prolonged exposure and EMDR therapy) without preceding interventions that targeted emotion regulation difficulties. PTSD symptom scores (CAPS-5) and emotion regulation difficulties (DERS) were assessed at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and six month follow-up. Results: PTSD severity and emotion regulation difficulties significantly decreased following trauma-focused treatment. While PTSD severity scores significantly increased from post-treatment until six month follow-up, emotion regulation difficulties did not. Treatment response and relapse was not predicted by emotion-regulation difficulties. Survivors of childhood sexual abuse before the age of 12 and those who were sexually abused later in life improved equally well with regard to emotion regulation difficulties. Individuals who fulfilled criteria of the dissociative subtype of PTSD showed a similar decrease on emotion regulation difficulties during treatment than those who did not. Conclusion: The results support the notion that the severity of emotion regulation difficulties is not associated with worse trauma-focused treatment outcomes for PTSD nor with relapse after completing treatment. Further, emotion regulation difficulties improved after trauma-focused treatment, even for individuals who had been exposed to early childhood sexual trauma and individuals with dissociative subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M van Toorenburg
- Research Department Psychotrauma Expertise Centre(PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - S A Sanches
- Research Department Psychotrauma Expertise Centre(PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,Phrenos Center of Expertise for Severe Mental Illness, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - B Linders
- Research Department Psychotrauma Expertise Centre(PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - L Rozendaal
- Research Department Psychotrauma Expertise Centre(PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - E M Voorendonk
- Research Department Psychotrauma Expertise Centre(PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,Behavioural Science Institute (BSI), Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A Van Minnen
- Research Department Psychotrauma Expertise Centre(PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,Behavioural Science Institute (BSI), Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A De Jongh
- Research Department Psychotrauma Expertise Centre(PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,Department of Social Dentistry and Behavioural Sciences, University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,School of Health Sciences, Salford University, Manchester, UK.,Institute of Health and Society, University of Worcester, Worcester, UK.,School of Psychology, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
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Stayton LE, Martin CE, Pease JL, Chard KM. Changes in suicidal ideation following cognitive processing therapy in a VA residential treatment program. MILITARY PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/08995605.2019.1630230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura E. Stayton
- Trauma Recovery Center, Cincinnati VA Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Colleen E. Martin
- Trauma Recovery Center, Cincinnati VA Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - James L. Pease
- Trauma Recovery Center, Cincinnati VA Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Kathleen M. Chard
- Trauma Recovery Center, Cincinnati VA Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Smith NB, Sippel LM, Rozek DC, Hoff RA, Harpaz-Rotem I. Predictors of Dropout From Residential Treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Military Veterans. Front Psychol 2019; 10:362. [PMID: 30873081 PMCID: PMC6401625 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Successful psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) necessitates initial and sustained engagement. However, treatment dropout is common, with rates of 50-70% depending on the setting, type of treatment and how dropout is calculated. Dropout from residential treatment is less understood and could be impacted by participation of more symptomatic patient populations and reduced day-to-day barriers to engagement. Gaining insight into predictors of treatment dropout is critical given that individuals with greater symptoms are the most in need of successful treatments but also at higher risk of unsuccessful psychotherapy episodes. Aim: The aim of the current study was to examine predictors of treatment dropout among veterans receiving residential treatment for PTSD. Methods: The study included 3,965 veterans who initiated residential PTSD treatment within a Department of Veterans Affairs program during Fiscal Year 2015 and completed self-report measures of demographics and psychiatric symptoms at admission. Results: In our sample (N = 3,965, 86.5% male, mean age = 45.5), 27.5% did not complete the residential program (n = 1,091). Controlling for age, marital status, combat/non-combat trauma, and facility, generalized estimating equation modeling analysis indicated greater PTSD symptoms and physical functioning at admission were associated with reduced likelihood of completing the residential program. There were significant differences in trauma-focused psychotherapy received by individuals who dropped out of residential treatment and those who did not. Among veterans who dropped out, 43.6% did not get any trauma-focused psychotherapy; 22.3% got some, but less than 8 sessions; and 34.1% got at least 8 sessions; compared to 37.3%, 4.8%, and 57.9%, respectively, among program completers. Conclusion: Dropout rates from residential PTSD programs indicate that at least one in four veterans do not complete residential treatment, with more symptomatic individuals and those who do not receive trauma-focused therapy being less likely to complete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle B. Smith
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, West Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Lauren M. Sippel
- National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, VT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, United States
| | - David C. Rozek
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- National Center for Veterans Studies at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Rani A. Hoff
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, West Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
- National Center for PTSD, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - Ilan Harpaz-Rotem
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, West Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
- National Center for PTSD, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
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