Attention A T users. To access the menus on this page please perform the following steps. 1. Please switch auto forms mode to off. 2. Hit enter to expand a main menu option (Health, Benefits, etc). 3. To enter and activate the submenu links, hit the down arrow. You will now be able to tab or arrow up or down through the submenu options to access/activate the submenu links.

War Related Illness and Injury Study Center

Menu
Menu
Quick Links
Veterans Crisis Line Badge
My healthevet badge
 

Study: Breathing Meditation for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Are you at veteran? Do you have symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? (e.g., re-experiencing a traumatic event, avoiding stressful situations, negative feelings, sleep problems, unable to relax)

You may be eligible to participate in a non-drug study involving a group-based breathing meditation treatment or a standard evidence-based psychotherapy if you:

  • Are a veteran from any conflict era
  • Have symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder measured during study screening

Purpose of this Study:

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that develops as a result of exposure to a highly stressful experience. The purpose of this study is to determine whether a breathing meditation technique (Sudarshan Kriya Yoga; SKY) provides a treatment benefit that is as effective as the standard psychotherapy (Cognitive Processing Therapy – CPT-C). Participants' PTSD symptoms will be assessed before treatment, at the end of treatment, one month after treatment and 12 months after treatment.

Following successful screening, participants must agree to be randomly placed into either one of the following treatments for the duration of the study:

Sky Yoga or Cognitive Processing Therapy

Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY)

SKY is a mind-body resilience building technique for veterans. It offers practical breath-based tools that decrease the stress, anxiety and sleep problems that many returning veterans experience.

Through rhythmic breathing patterns, SKY Practice brings deep mental and physical relaxation which can reduce symptoms of anxiety, anger, insomnia and depression.

Through interactive discussions, the (SKY) Power Breath Meditation Workshop builds a framework for resilience and empowerment, and develops self-awareness, connectedness and community, and a positive outlook.

Learn more about Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) here

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT-C)

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT-C) is a cognitive-behavioral talk therapy for symptoms of PTSD and related conditions. It has been shown to be effective in treating PTSD across a variety of populations, including combat veterans and sexual assault victims.

It is very common to experience distressing symptoms after a highly stressful experience. According to CPT-C theory, some people experience a blocking of the natural process of recovery which prevents them from fully working through their thoughts and feelings. CPT-C utilizes cognitive techniques to move through these “stuck points” and progress toward recovery.

Structure of CPT Sessions:

  • 12 one-to-one sessions with a licensed psychotherapist
  • 50 minutes per session
  • two sessions per week
  • practice assignments between sessions

Learn more about Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) here

View a Video on Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) here

Research Study Flyer

PTSD Study Flyer - (pdf)

Image of PTSD Study Flyer ^ back to top

return to top go