A pilot study examining effects of group-based Cognitive Strategy Training treatment on self-reported cognitive problems, psychiatric symptoms, functioning, and compensatory strategy use in OIF/OEF combat veterans with persistent mild cognitive disorder and history of traumatic brain injury.
We aimed to determine whether group-based Cognitive Strategy Training (CST) for combat veterans with mild cognitive disorder and a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) has significant posttreatment effects on self-reported compensatory strategy usage, functioning, and psychiatric symptoms. Participants included 21 veterans returning from conflicts in Iraq or Afghanistan with a diagnosis of Cognitive Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified and a history of combat-related TBI. Participants attended 6- to 8-week structured CST groups designed to provide them training in and practice with a variety of compensatory cognitive strategies, including day planner usage. Of the participants, 16 completed pre- and posttreatment assessment measures. Following CST, participants reported significantly increased use of compensatory cognitive strategies and day planners; an increased perception that these strategies were useful to them; increased life satisfaction; and decreased depressive, memory, and cognitive symptom severity. Group-based CST is a promising intervention for veterans with mild cognitive disorder, and randomized controlled trials are required to further evaluate its efficacy.
Huckans
Marilyn
M
Research Division , Portland VA Medical Center (P3MHN), 3710 SW U.S. Veterans Hospital Rd, Portland, OR 97239, USA. marilyn.huckans@va.gov
Pavawalla
Shital
S
Demadura
Theresa
T
Kolessar
Michael
M
Seelye
Adriana
A
Roost
Noah
N
Twamley
Elizabeth W
EW
Storzbach
Daniel
D
D055826:Afghan Campaign 2001-; D001753:Blast Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D054542:Iraq War, 2003-2011; D008569:Memory Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D014481:United States; D014493:United States Department of Veterans Affairs; D014728:Veterans / Q000523:psychology