Dave Emerson and I want to keep yoga teachers and followers in the loop about challenges or treatments. Two stories about two Marines were recently published in The Washingtonian Magazine by John Pekkanen. The articles detail the difficulty recovering from wounds that exact both physical, and behavioral changes. Pekannan has written two excellent articles that detail the complexities involved in treatment of their injuries and establishing long-term comprehensive treatment plans. Two Marines are profiled who are in treatment on 7 East, known more formally as the TBI unit at Bethesda Naval Hospital.

There are precise reasons why these programs work. Programs like this are strategically staffed with a variety of professionals: neuropsychiatrists, neuropsychologists, speech, recreational, occupational, and physical therapists.  Built into the treatment plan are benchmarks for progress, a behavioral modification system with a rewards plan, as well as a schedule of activities. In addition, programs like 7 East are small so the treatment team can  focus. It’s a 24/7 program.

Unfortunately, there are few programs like this in the United States. Ideally, one should be at every military hospital, and also accessible through the VA. Let’s hope a consistently pushy public will help make this happen.  In addition, critical to the success of veterans is the involvement of the family. Individual and multiple family group therapy sessions, which discuss common issues, coping skills and goal setting are crucial for the long-term outlook for these patients.

One other point I wanted to touch on was the byline accompanying an article about LtCol KC Shuring: “Nearly five years after the ambush, a Marine still battles the demons of PTSD”

Dave, who works professionally with chronic, complex patients with PTSD in educational and clinical settings will tell you that many survivors suffer for long periods of time from the emotional and physical side effects of the memories of trauma. So it’s important not to put too much weight in the word “still.” However, with more articles such as those written by Pekannen, the public have a better understanding of the symptoms, treatments, and challenges as we find effective and lasting ways to help veterans and their families.