The theoretical and empirical basis for meditation as an intervention for PTSD.

Lang AJ, Strauss JL, Bomyea J, Bormann JE, Hickman SD, Good RC, Essex M. The theoretical and empirical basis for meditation as an intervention for PTSD. Behavior Modification. 2012 Nov 1; 36(6):759-86.

Related HSR&D Project(s)

• NRI 04-041 – Efficacy of Mantram Repetition on PTSD Symptoms in Veterans

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Abstract:

In spite of the existence of good empirically supported treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), consumers and providers continue to ask for more options for managing this common and often chronic condition. Meditation-based approaches are being widely implemented, but there is minimal research rigorously assessing their effectiveness. This article reviews meditation as an intervention for PTSD, considering three major types of meditative practices: mindfulness, mantra, and compassion meditation. The mechanisms by which these approaches may effectively reduce PTSD symptoms and improve quality of life are presented. Empirical evidence of the efficacy of meditation for PTSD is very limited but holds some promise. Additional evaluation of meditation-based treatment appears to be warranted.