Operation restoration: couples reunification retreats for veterans of operations enduring and iraqi freedom.
Couples interventions are promising approaches to help veterans successfully reintegrate into civilian life and recover from combat-related trauma. However, few programs are available to address these needs. This article describes a weekend retreat program we developed called Operation Restoration, which focuses on strengthening the relationships of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) veterans and their partners. We also report results from program evaluations completed by participants of the initial two retreats, aimed at further developing and refining Operation Restoration. The program evaluations explored participants' perceptions of the retreat, including benefits gained, suggestions for improvement, and mental health treatment interests. Information gathered from 43 couples suggests that such retreats may be a useful approach for strengthening the intimate relationships of OEF/OIF veterans and gives direction for future programs.
Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA. lwdavis@iupui.edu
Louanne W
LW
Davis
Robin
R
Paul
David
D
Tarr
Amanda C
AC
Eicher
Jessica
J
Allinger
Heidi
H
Knock
D000328:Adult; D055826:Afghan Campaign 2001-; D003130:Combat Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D019546:Couples Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D054542:Iraq War, 2003-2011; D007899:Leisure Activities; D008297:Male; D008388:Marital Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D008393:Marriage / Q000523:psychology; D008875:Middle Aged; D010348:Patient Care Team; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012917:Social Adjustment; D012931:Social Environment; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D014481:United States; D014728:Veterans / Q000523:psychology*