An intensive treatment program for chronic posttraumatic stress disorder: 2-year outcome data.
OBJECTIVE
The present study evaluates the efficacy of a closed-cohort treatment program for chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).


METHODS
The treatment orientation was a combined approach involving cognitive behaviour therapy and pharmacotherapy. Treatment involved an inpatient phase of 4 weeks, with group and individual follow-up sessions of at least 6-month duration. The treatment population consisted largely of Australian Vietnam veterans. Standardised psychometric measures were obtained pre-treatment, on completion of the residential phase; and at 6, 12 and 24 months post discharge from the residential program.


RESULTS
The results obtained from 64 patients demonstrate significant reductions in depression, anxiety and PTSD symptoms, maintained at 2 years post discharge from the residential phase of the treatment program.


CONCLUSIONS
This paper presents encouraging findings for treatment with this troubled population.
Humphreys
L
L
St John of God Hospital, North Richmond, New South Wales, Australia. hhps@bigpond.com.au
Westerink
J
J
Giarratano
L
L
Brooks
R
R
D000328:Adult; D002908:Chronic Disease; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D015331:Cohort Studies; D003130:Combat Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009517:New South Wales; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D010343:Patient Admission; D010555:Personality Inventory; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D014728:Veterans / Q000523:psychology*; D014744:Vietnam
D011619:Psychotropic Drugs