Military PTSD 'can be treated successfully'

18th November 2010

Many people experiencing military post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are not aware there is treatment available for their condition, nor that it can be dealt with and managed successfully.

This is according to Patrick Rea, campaign director for PTSD Resolution - a UK charity that offers an outreach programme to veterans, helping them reintegrate into normal work and family life - who made this observation in response to an Oxford University study revealing that the computer game Tetris can have a beneficial effect on reducing flashbacks, a prominent feature of the condition.

The survey suggested playing such games post-trauma could offer a cognitive vaccine, providing a method of early intervention before cognitive behavioural therapy is required.

Mr Rea explained that, while not everyone can be treated effectively, the majority can.

"Many sufferers still think it's the case that it's something that they just have to endure, but it can be dealt with successfully," he said.

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