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Veteran perspectives on treatment and recovery from co-occurring anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder and unhealthy alcohol use.

Ecker AH, Kolp H, Poe L, Finley EP, Pigee R, Kelly MM, Helmer DA, Cucciare MA, Cully JA. Veteran perspectives on treatment and recovery from co-occurring anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder and unhealthy alcohol use. Journal of studies on alcohol and drugs. 2025 Mar 21 DOI: 10.15288/jsad.24-00278.

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Abstract:

OBJECTIVE: Veterans experience high rates of co-occurring anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and unhealthy alcohol use. The goal of this study was to improve the understanding of veterans' beliefs about recovery from co-occurring anxiety/PTSD and alcohol use to direct treatment adaptation and implementation for providers. METHODS: Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with 20 veterans, analyzed with rapid qualitative analysis and inductive coding. RESULTS: Veterans' responses reflected themes related to improvement in functioning, including use of coping skills and communication skills, engagement in therapy, and connection with other veterans. Veterans also described barriers and facilitators related to effective treatment for both disorders. CONCLUSIONS: Specific elements in treatment (e.g., coping and communication skills) and broader considerations (e.g., building community among others in recovery) contribute to relationship and occupational recovery from co-occurring disorders among veterans. Ensuring that these factors are considered in behavioral treatment and treatment programs more broadly for veterans with co-occurring disorders has the potential to enhance functional recovery by aligning with veterans' perspectives and priorities.




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