PTSD in Veterans: Treatment Options and Challenges
- North Star Psychology
- Feb 21
- 4 min read
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant concern among veterans, stemming from experiences during military service such as combat exposure, witnessing violence, or experiencing severe injuries. PTSD affects veterans’ mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, effective treatments are available, though unique challenges often affect veterans’ ability to seek or maintain treatment.
This article explores PTSD in veterans, focusing on treatment options—specifically Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)—and the common challenges veterans face in addressing their mental health needs.
Understanding PTSD in Veterans
PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing traumatic events. Among veterans, combat situations, life-threatening injuries, loss of comrades, or participation in violent activities are common PTSD triggers. Symptoms typically include:
Intrusive memories (flashbacks, nightmares)
Hyperarousal (feeling on edge, difficulty sleeping)
Avoidance behaviors (avoiding reminders of trauma)
Negative thoughts and mood changes (guilt, detachment)
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), approximately 11-20% of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan have PTSD in a given year, underscoring the importance of effective, accessible treatments (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2021).
Effective Treatment Options for Veterans
Veterans can significantly benefit from evidence-based treatments for PTSD. Among the most effective are Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), both endorsed by the VA and backed by extensive research.
CPT helps veterans understand and reframe unhelpful thoughts related to their trauma. Many veterans struggle with beliefs such as "I should have prevented this" or "I can’t trust anyone." CPT aims to:
Identify distorted beliefs linked to trauma
Challenge and modify these beliefs
Develop healthier, more balanced thoughts
CPT typically involves 12 structured sessions and has shown robust results in reducing PTSD symptoms among veterans (Monson et al., 2006).
PE addresses avoidance behaviors that maintain PTSD symptoms. Veterans are gradually and systematically exposed to trauma-related memories and situations, reducing fear over time. Key components include:
Imaginal Exposure: Repeatedly discussing the traumatic event with a therapist
In Vivo Exposure: Gradually confronting avoided situations in real life
PE generally lasts 8-12 sessions and has proven highly effective in reducing PTSD symptoms in veteran populations (Foa et al., 2018).
Challenges Veterans Face in PTSD Treatment
Despite the availability of effective treatments, many veterans face challenges accessing or engaging in PTSD therapy:
1. Stigma and Fear of Judgment
Military culture often emphasizes strength and self-reliance, which can deter veterans from seeking help. Fear of being seen as weak or fear of negative career impacts can prevent timely treatment.
2. Access to Specialized Care
Veterans in rural areas or those far from VA centers may struggle to access therapists trained in evidence-based PTSD treatments.
Many veterans experience PTSD alongside depression, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or chronic pain, complicating diagnosis and treatment.
4. Transition Challenges
Transitioning from military to civilian life can exacerbate PTSD symptoms, with challenges related to identity loss, employment difficulties, and social isolation.
Overcoming Barriers: Strategies for Better Access
To address these challenges, several strategies can help veterans better access and benefit from PTSD treatments:
1. Telehealth Services
Telehealth therapy, like that provided by North Star Psychology, can significantly increase access for veterans in remote or underserved areas. Studies show telehealth CPT and PE are as effective as in-person treatments (Morland et al., 2014).
2. Peer Support Groups
Veteran-led support groups can reduce stigma, providing a good space for shared experiences and encouragement to seek professional therapy.
3. Integrated Treatment Approaches
Addressing comorbid conditions through integrated care (combining PTSD therapy with depression treatment, pain management, etc.) enhances overall effectiveness.
4. Education and Awareness
Ongoing education on PTSD symptoms and treatments can help reduce stigma and encourage veterans to seek help early.
When to Seek Professional Help
Veterans experiencing persistent PTSD symptoms that interfere with daily life, relationships, or employment should seek professional therapy. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) remain some of the most effective evidence-based treatments, offering significant symptom relief and improved quality of life.
At North Star Psychology, we provide specialized CPT and PE via telehealth, ensuring veterans receive accessible, effective care from the comfort of home.
Call (205) 797-1897 or email us at info@NorthStarPsyc.com to schedule a free consultation.
Final Thoughts
PTSD is a common yet highly treatable condition among veterans. Understanding available treatments and addressing challenges to care can significantly improve outcomes. With appropriate support and evidence-based therapy, veterans can achieve lasting and remarkable recovery.
References
Foa, E. B., Hembree, E. A., & Rothbaum, B. O. (2018). Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD: Emotional Processing of Traumatic Experiences. Oxford University Press.
Monson, C. M., Schnurr, P. P., Resick, P. A., Friedman, M. J., Young-Xu, Y., & Stevens, S. P. (2006). Cognitive processing therapy for veterans with military-related posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 74(5), 898-907. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.74.5.898
Morland, L. A., Greene, C. J., Rosen, C. S., Kuhn, E., Hoffman, J., & Sloan, D. M. (2014). Telehealth and eHealth interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder. Current Opinion in Psychology, 14, 102-108. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2016.12.003
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2021). How Common is PTSD in Veterans? Retrieved from https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/common/common_veterans.asp
