Noteboom The Law Firm

Using Faith To Treat PTSD

February 4, 2011 - Not all post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatments are created equal. Some are very effective for certain veterans, while those same treatments fail miserably for others. Because PTSD as we know it today is relatively new, and PTSD treatments are newer still, what is effective and what is not effective is still being sorted out and developed. From medicines to music therapy, many different types of therapies for PTSD treatment have been explored.  

It may be the case however, that effective treatment can be had at a much more basic level. A school of theology in Colorado is attempting to help those with PTSD work through their issues by using their religious beliefs to help them cope with their symptoms.

The Iliff School of Theology is teaching Air Force chaplains how to build trust with PTSD patients so they can help them use their own faith to deal with their stress. The program lasts 12 months, and has 4 times the enrollees it did last year. Once trust and acceptance has developed between the trauma survivor and the chaplain, the survivor is more likely to open up about their traumatic experiences. Once that happens, the chaplains will hopefully be able to help.

The diverse religious backgrounds chaplains encounter helps them refrain from passing judgment and/or proselytizing. Many returning veterans are unsure of how to approach dealing with their trauma, and if they feel judged or preached at, they will likely not be as open as they should be. Going to a chaplain for help with PTSD is not the same as going to a specific religion's church services.

Iliff's program is simply attempting to help solve a quickly escalating problem. So far, feedback has been positive, which means veterans are getting some of the help they need.