Ptsd residential recovery program | va pacific islands health care | veterans affairs

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that is triggered by a traumatic event. PTSD symptoms, including nightmares and unwanted memories of the trauma,

irritability and angry outbursts, and a need to constantly be on-guard, can last for years if left untreated. Individuals with PTSD often feel disconnected from life, which can mean a lack

of interest in hobbies and trouble maintaining relationships. Avoidance plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of PTSD symptoms. Individuals with PTSD tend to use avoidance

as a primary coping mechanism and, although avoidance “works” in the short term, ultimately it is the primary cause of ongoing PTSD symptoms in the long term. Not everyone who endures a

traumatic event will develop PTSD; however, for those who do, everyday life can feel unbearable. The good news is that there are effective treatments available for Veterans with PTSD, and

the VA is here to help. Many Veterans with PTSD can be effectively treated via a full round of evidence-based outpatient psychotherapy which typically involves weekly sessions. Daily

intensive outpatient therapy is also available for those Veterans in need of a higher level of care. But what if outpatient therapy isn’t enough? That’s where the PTSD Residential Recovery

Program (PRRP) can help.  PRRP is an 8-to-9-week residential treatment program for male Veterans and active-duty service members with military-related PTSD. PRRP operates on a “cohort

model,” meaning that the same group of patients start and end the program together. The cohort model helps patients to form bonds with one another, which has proven to be a crucial aspect to

the healing process. PRRP offers evidence-based group and individual therapy, as well as comprehensive psychiatric and medical care, peer support interventions, and therapeutic recreational

activities. The program’s recovery and integrative treatment model is designed to decrease PTSD symptoms and increase effective coping skills. “The main thing I want people to know is that

PTSD is treatable,” said Navy Veteran Dr. Angela Adams, Psychologist, PRRP Program Manager. “PTSD does not have to be a life sentence; it is okay to get help.” A residential program can

sound frightening to some people. Others might think that they don’t need it. However, Dr. Adams wants Veterans to know that they deserve help, and that there is no shame in asking for it.

If a Veteran’s symptoms interfere with their ability to lead a happy and fulfilling life, the PRRP could be a great opportunity for them to reconnect with life and heal. Remember: Seeking

treatment doesn’t mean admitting weakness. To seek treatment demonstrates bravery and a commitment to recovering from a psychological injury.  On the surface, some of the therapies offered

by PRRP, including Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure, can sound scary. Dr. Adams wants Veterans to know that, “although these evidence-based treatments can be intimidating

and challenging, they can also completely transform one’s life.” “Another fact that I want to communicate to Veterans with PTSD is that memories can’t technically harm you,” said Dr. Adams.

“Trauma memories are certainly distressing, but they are not harmful. Effective treatments help Veterans to process their memories and their emotions, and confront their thoughts and

beliefs, but they do not retraumatize Veterans.” Veterans do not have to have all of the symptoms described above to be eligible for PTSD treatment. Veterans can request to be evaluated for

PTSD and seek treatment if needed at any time. Veterans can call 1-800-214-1306 to make an appointment with their provider to discuss any symptoms that they may be experiencing.

Additionally, the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 to all Veterans. A PTSD diagnosis is not a requirement. Veterans struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or any other

issues can call the Veterans Crisis Line at any time. Call 988, then press 1. June is PTSD Awareness Month, but the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS) treats PTSD all year

long. If you are a Veteran and you are interested in mental health care, please reach out. Mental health care is every bit as important as physical health care, and wounds of the mind are

just as important – and as treatable as – wounds of the body. Click here for our PSTD Awareness Podcast on “VAPIHCS Talk Story”