Examining the Efficacy and Feasibility of a Residential Retreat Program for First Responders and Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Veterans and first responders suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often report having difficulties with treatment adherence and exhibit high rates of dropout. To address these issues, previous studies have implemented the use of residential retreat programs, in the populations of interest. However, previous studies have mostly utilized trauma-centered therapy methods, which are accompanied by their challenges and trade-offs. To rectify this, the Learn to Live residential retreat program was formulated, which incorporates non-trauma-centered methods to improve PTSD symptom manifestation and management. Methods: Twenty-one participants registered for the five-day residential retreat program and attended the first day of the program. The primary objective of the pilot trial was to determine the feasibility of the protocol in terms of retention rates and subjective efficacy of the program. Secondarily, the authors sought to examine the potential impact of the program on PTSD symptom manifestation measured by the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5. Results: Of the 21 participants attending the first day of the program, 19 completed all five days. Eighteen participants who finished the program reported finding the program helpful and being willing to recommend the program to others. Similarly, symptoms of PTSD showed statistically significant improvements at a one-month follow-up (V(17) = 152, P < 0.001), with 12 of the 18 participants exhibiting clinically significant improvements. Conclusion: This pilot trial provided preliminary evidence for the feasibility and efficacy of the program. This provides the groundwork for future randomized controlled trials to establish the effectiveness of similar programs for improving PTSD symptoms in veterans and first responders.