Promoting Wellness and Resilience for Veterans

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PTSD. PTSD is a learned response and can be altered by new learning new thought patterns (Zayfert & Becker, 2006). Irrational thoughts and beliefs related to PTSD can be altered and help condition the client to believe that the feared condition is no longer a threat to them (Zayfert & Becker, 2006). With the use of CBT, stress management techniques can be taught, self-worth can be worked on and improved, and leisure skills and interests can be discussed and improved upon through systematic testing and development (Zayfert & Becker, 2006).

Propose Prevention and Education Activities

Not everyone will understand what PTSD is and why it occurs, especially family and friends. The best way for anyone to get the support they need from family and friends is for them to understand the meaning of PTSD. It is important that those who are in contact with the client should be educated about PTSD so the client’s level of wellness and resilience can increase. Also, teaching the client about social skills and social interactions is very important. Helping the client understand how their PTSD can be triggered can help them avoid triggering their symptoms and have a positive social interaction. Educating the client on how physical activity and exercise is important for their mental and physical health. Emphasizing to the client how important self-care is for their recovery, and why it’s an important part of the healing process.

Identify Strategies to Promote Community Resources

The client and their family can be given a list of resources that can aid in the recovery of the client and there are many resources for those with PTSD. Providing links to such places as the VA hospital, online support groups, and the Oklahoma Helpline. Give clients brochures, information about service providers, and government resources. Also, give clients and their families numbers to crisis lines such as the suicidal prevention line or the number to their local hospital in case the client is in crisis and needs immediate help and they can’t get ahold of me for some reason.

References

Averill, L. A., Fleming, C. E., Holens, P. L., & Larsen, S. E. (2015). Research on PTSD prevalence in OEF/OIF Veterans: Expanding investigation of demographic variables. European Journal of Psychotraumatology, 6(0).

Groer, M. W., Kane, B., Williams, S. N., & Duffy, A. (2014). Relationship of PTSD Symptoms With Combat Exposure, Stress, and Inflammation in American Soldiers. Biological Research For Nursing, 17(3), 303-310.

Lebouthillier, D. M., Fetzner, M. G., & Asmundson, G. J. (2015). Lower cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with greater reduction in PTSD symptoms and anxiety sensitivity following aerobic exercise. Mental Health and Physical Activity.

Myers, J. E., & Sweeney, T. J. (2005). The indivisible self: An evidence-based model of wellness (reprint). Journal of Individual Psychology, 61(3), 269-279. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.library.capella.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com.library.capella.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=19542435&site=ehost-live&scope=site

Myers, J. E., Sweeney, T. J., & J Melvin Witmer. (2000). The wheel of wellness counseling for

wellness: A holistic model for treatment planning. Journal of Counseling and Development: JCD, 78(3), 251-266. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com.library.capella.edu/docview/219024099?accountid=27965

Newman, B. M., & Newman, P. R. (n.d.). Development through life: A psychosocial approach.

Watts, G. (2011). Intellectual disability and spiritual development. Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability, 36(4), 234-241. doi:10.3109/13668250.2011.617731

Zayfert, C., & Becker, C. B. (2006). Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for PTSD : A Case Formulation Approach. New York, NY, USA: Guilford Press. Retrieved from http://www.ebrary.com