PSTD Treatment of Joint Forces Operation Combatants

Abstract

The participation of military personnel in operations like the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO)/Joint Forces Operations (JFO) can lead to significant psychological trauma, potentially resulting in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Understanding the effectiveness of psychotherapy in treating PTSD among ATO/JFO participants is crucial given its profound impact on personal relationships, life scenarios, and overall well-being. This study evaluates how acceptance and commitment therapy can alleviate PTSD symptoms and enhance well-being in Ukrainian military personnel with combat-related PTSD. The main research method was a psychological experiment, and the case study method was used as an auxiliary research method. The study revealed the following: combatants in the ATO/JFO who have been diagnosed with PTSD should be classified as persons with disabilities due to certain limitations in their life activities, namely, the inability to control their behavior, and difficulties in work and communication. This study proves that cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy has a clear advantage in overcoming PTSD in the military, as it allows transforming psychological trauma into posttraumatic growth. Attachment and acceptance therapy, a form of behavioral therapy, has emerged as one of the most effective treatments for PTSD. It focuses on diagnosing and addressing the psychological consequences of war by analyzing the connections among cognition, affect, and behavior. Given the protracted nature of PTSD, the practical significance of the study is to develop effective psychotherapeutic interventions for the expected recovery of ATO/JFO participants affected by combat operations.