Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Interventions to Improve Psychosocial Functioning in Veterans With PTSD: An Integrative Review.

Abstract

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent diagnosis among Veterans and is linked to psychosocial functioning impairment across various domains, including marriage, employment, parenting, family, and education. Veterans are more likely to be divorced, unemployed, and experience difficulties with parenting. Some research has suggested that improvement in PTSD-specific symptoms can also improve psychosocial functioning. An integrative review was conducted to explore the content and effectiveness of evidence-based psychotherapy (EBP) interventions to improve psychosocial functions and investigate conditions for symptom change. The Socio-Interpersonal Framework Model of PTSD was used to synthesize and organize findings. MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases were searched and seven articles met inclusion criteria. The main results indicate that EBP interventions can improve psychosocial functioning in Veterans with PTSD. Treating Veterans until they no longer meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD may be beneficial to improve psychosocial functioning. The current integrative review revealed that this area is neglected in research. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 57(10), 24-33.].