Feasibility and Acceptability of Stress Induction, Physiological Data Collection, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Among Combat Veterans With PTSD

MBSR consists of weekly two-hour sessions for eight weeks, and a 7.5 hour retreat between weeks 6 and 7. The MBSR intervention will be facilitated by an experienced and certified MBSR teacher. MBSR curriculum strongly encourages completion of home practice assignments (\~30 minutes daily) to help integration of concepts into daily life. Participants will receive audio CDs and a DVD to help guide home practice.

HWE is a didactic-based group intervention designed as an active comparator for randomized-controlled trials of MBSR. HWE provides instruction to participants regarding improving their emotional and physical health. In contrast to MBSR, there are no attempts to train participants' breathing, movement, or meditation habits or practices. HWE is administered in 8 weekly 2.5-hour classes with home practice to be completed between sessions (matched to MBSR for amount and effort). HWE also features one extended 7.5-hour retreat, similar to MBSR.84 Dr. Autumn Gallegos (consultant) has conducted trials of MBSR among veterans with PTSD using a HWE control group, and will provide mentorship to the PI in administering the HWE intervention. Dr. Kaplan and a trained RA will facilitate HWE.