title: Integrating occupational therapy in treating combat stress reaction within a military unit: An intervention model.
abstract: Combat stress reaction (CR) is a syndrome with a wide range of symptoms including changes in soldiers' behaviors, emotional and physiological responses, avoidance and a decrease in both personal and military functioning. The short-term goal in treating CR is a speedy return to healthy functioning, whereas the long-term goal is to prevent the development of PTSD. Previous research has indicated that the achievement of this short-term goal affects the achievement of the long-term goal and vice versa. Effective treatment requires intervention by trained professionals proficient in reinforcing personal and functional identity without psychiatric labelling. The present paper presents a therapeutic model integrating OT in treating CR within a military setting. The model emphasizes the importance of preventing fixation to the role of 'patient' and a rapid return to maximal functioning. Based on Kielhofner's Model of Human Occupation, which aims to promote adaptive and efficient functioning by engaging soldiers in tasks supporting their military identity, empowering functionality, and increasing their perceived competency. The model emphasizes the therapeutic milieu within a military environment. Practical application of this model focuses on interdisciplinary aspects and client-focused application. The paper describes an assessment process for each soldier entering the CR unit and a treatment model integrating OT.
authors.affiliation: Beit Berl College, Israel.
authors.forename: Shahar
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Gindi
authors.affiliation: Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center, University of Haifa, Israel.
authors.forename: Giora
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Galili
authors.affiliation: Shalvata Mental Health Center, Israel.
authors.forename: Shani
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Volovic-Shushan
authors.affiliation: Shalvata Mental Health Center, Israel.
authors.forename: Shirly
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Adir-Pavis
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D008889:Military Personnel / Q000523:psychology*; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000628:therapy*; D014857:Warfare
keywords: MOHO; PTSD; combat stress reaction; interdisciplinary practice