Effects of Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on Retention of Memory for Fear Extinction Learning...
PostTraumatic Stress DisorderThe goal of this study is to look at how a type of drug called cannabinoids are related to the processing of fear signals, the experience of emotions and fear, and the pattern of activity in the brain that is involved in these processes and how this relates to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is an anxiety disorder that occurs after experiencing a traumatic event(s) and is characterized by unwanted memories of the trauma(s) through flashbacks or nightmares, avoidance of situations that remind the person of the event, difficulty experiencing emotions, loss of interest in activities the person used to enjoy, and increased arousal, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, anger and hypervigilance. The information gained from this study could lead to the development of new treatments for persons who suffer from anxiety or fear-based disorders.
Examining the Effects of Reduced Environmental Stimulation on Anxiety
Generalized Anxiety DisorderAgoraphobia4 moreThe studies proposed in this protocol aim to explore the anxiolytic properties of floating as it relates to the central and autonomic nervous system.
Prospective Evaluation of Family Care Rituals in the ICU
Stress DisordersPost-Traumatic2 moreThis study will evaluate whether or not engaging family members of patients admitted to the ICU in "Family Care Rituals" will reduce stress related symptoms of PTSD, depression and anxiety 90 days after patient death or discharge from the ICU. Family Care Rituals are defined as several domains in which family participation may be of benefit, focusing on the 5 physical senses as well as the personal care of the patient and spirituality of the patient
An RCT of a Primary Care-Based PTSD Intervention: Clinician-Supported PTSD Coach
Posttraumatic Stress DisorderPosttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an often severe and frequently disabling condition. It is associated with compromised health, early mortality, and substantial economic costs. PTSD is common in VA primary care patients; however, brief, effective treatments for PTSD are not available in the primary care setting. Instead, patients with PTSD are referred to mental health settings, yet many patients do not accept these referrals or do not adequately engage in such services. Thus, this project seeks to improve health care for Veterans by testing the effectiveness of a primary care-based treatment called clinician-supported PTSD Coach. In this treatment a primary care mental health clinician guides patients in using the PTSD Coach mobile app to learn about PTSD symptoms, treatment options, and strategies to cope with common PTSD-related concerns. If this treatment is found to be effective at reducing PTSD symptoms and increasing use of mental health care, it will provide a tremendous benefit to Veterans with PTSD seen in VA primary care.
Cannabinoid Control of Fear Extinction Neural Circuits in Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-Traumatic Stress DisorderThe goal of this study is to look at how a type of drug called cannabinoids are related to the processing of fear signals, the experience of emotions and fear, and the pattern of activity in the brain that is involved in these processes and how this relates to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is an anxiety disorder that occurs after experiencing a traumatic event(s) and is characterized by unwanted memories of the trauma(s) through flashbacks or nightmares, avoidance of situations that remind the person of the event, difficulty experiencing emotions, loss of interest in activities the person used to enjoy, and increased arousal, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, anger and hypervigilance. The information gained from this study could lead to the development of new treatments for persons who suffer from anxiety or fear-based disorders.
A Pilot Test of the Relaxation Response Resiliency Program (3RP) in Spanish Speaking World Trade...
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)The objective of this protocol is to test the feasibility and acceptability of the Relaxation Response Resiliency Program (3RP), a psychotherapy treatment providing a variety of mind body skills and interventions to decrease medical and mental health symptoms and build resilience, in Spanish-speaking World Trade Center (WTC) survivors, and to examine its clinical effectiveness to reduce Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and lower respiratory symptoms (LRS) and improve psychosocial functioning.
Adjunctive Brief Behavioral Treatment of Insomnia (BBTI) for Sleep Intervention (SI)
InsomniaDepression2 moreThere is a strong association between sleep disturbance and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Sleep disturbance is also highly comorbid with other common conditions associated with suicide such as depression and posttraumatic stress disorder. Accordingly, this application focuses on improving sleep as a novel suicide prevention strategy that can be delivered to a broad range of Veterans. This pilot proposal specifically examines how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, an efficacious treatment for insomnia, may reduce suicidal ideation in Veterans who also suffer from additional conditions. The proposal further suggests that adding this sleep intervention to usual care may further enhance overall care by increasing the utilization of recommended treatments for depression and posttraumatic stress disorder.
fMRI Predictors of Treatment Response in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)To employ a fear learning-extinction paradigm with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and skin conductance response (SCR) assessments among patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma exposed healthy controls, aiming to a) clarify neural circuits underlying PTSD and b) to probe brain based predictors of symptomatic improvement in response to Prolonged Exposure (PE) treatment, and first line treatment for PTSD.
The Effect of EFT on Psychological States in a Veterans Population
Stress DisordersPost-TraumaticA need exists to find fast yet effective treatment protocols for the large number of US military service personnel coming back from Iraq with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and a variety of co-occurring psychological problems. EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) has demonstrated promise as a PTSD treatment in pilot studies. This study examines the effects of six sessions of EFT coaching on veterans who score at or above the military cutoff point for PSTD. Subjects are also assessed for conditions that often accompany PTSD, such as depression and anxiety. Changes pain, cravings, and physical symptoms are also measured. Assessments are made after six sessions are complete, and again after three and six months.
Hydrocortisone in the Treatment of Intrusions in Patients With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Posttraumatic Stress DisorderTo test overall efficacy of hydrocortisone on reexperience of traumatic memories (intrusions) and overall symptomatology in patients meeting criteria of complex chronic PTSD.