At a glance
ClinicalIndex Comparison Record- ✓Primary diagnosis of PTSD related to military service
- ✓PTSD Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) score ≥45
- ✓PTSD Checklist (PCL) score >50
- ✓Able to read and write English
- ✕Active psychosis
- ✕Untreated bipolar disorder
- ✕Dementia
- ✕Personality disorder that interferes with group participation
Standardized by ClinicalIndex from the ClinicalTrials.gov record · verify against the source.
Efficacy of Mantram Repetition on PTSD Symptoms in Veterans
In Brief
A clinical study evaluating Mantram Repetition Program (MRP) plus Usual Care and Usual care consisting of medication and case management for Stress Disorders, Post Traumatic. Completed, enrolled 146 participants across 1 site.
Detailed Summary
With ongoing war in Iraq, the incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in combat veterans is increasing. Creation, implementation, and testing of new and innovative interventions are needed to provide additional options for enhancing the mental health of those with PTSD. Surveys indicate that veterans are interested in complementary approaches to health care. The purpose of this study is to determine the efficacy of the Mantram Repetition Program (MRP) delivered as a brief, 6-week, complementary and portable intervention. It includes frequent, silent repetitions of a mantram (mantra), a word or phrase with spiritual associations, to manage PTSD symptoms and improve quality of life military veterans with trauma.
Study Details
Timeline
Interventions
The MRP teaches 3 strategies to train attention and manage symptoms: Mantram Repetition, Slowing Down and One-Pointed Attention. A "mantram" is a self-selected, sacred word or phrase that is meaningful to the participant. Slowing down refers to setting priorities and doing things carefully so one is not rushed or does not make mistakes. One-pointed attention refers to concentrating on one thing at a time (similar to mindfulness). These three tools are presented to work together synergistically and cumulatively to interrupt negative thoughts and emotional states such as anger, rage, irritability and hyper-arousal. The unique focus on spiritual words is linked to what one might call inner spiritual resources. MRP was delivered in a 6-week (90 minutes/week) group setting.
Usual care consisted of case management or meeting with Veterans at least once per month and monitoring medications, if prescribed.