M. Spiritual Support

OBJECTIVE

Reduce Symptoms of PTSD and improve patient’s functioning through social and spiritual support.

BACKGROUND

Spiritual & existential issues: “Given the complex range of PTSD symptomatology, a successful treatment program will address not only the emotional issues that characterize the disorder but also its psychophysiological, cognitive, and interpersonal processes and existential meanings” (Hunter, 1996).

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Provide access to religious/spiritual resources, if sought.

DISCUSSION

Trauma as Shattered Life Assumptions: Recent research on cognitive processes in victimization indicates that major changes in the individual’s basic life assumptions may occur. These assumptions involve the security and meaningfulness of the world and one’s sense of self-worth in relation to perception of the environment (Janoff-Bulman, 1979). Specifically, these assumptions are: (1) that one’s environment is physically and psychologically safe; (2) that events are predictable, meaningful and fair; (3) that one’s own sense of self-worth is positive in relation to experiences with other people and events (Hunter, 1996).

Social system interventions involve community action, organization and mobilization; education and consultation with advice for leaders; mobilization of action plans and recover process; facilitation of adaptation and mastery in social change; development of community networks; development of a positive recover organization; communication; and community theater and art geared to working through and recovering from the trauma.

Providing space and opportunities for prayers, mantras, rites and rituals and end-of-life care as determined important by the patient (Lee, 1997; Canda & Phaobtong, 1992)