Mindfulness-Based Treatments for Trauma Survivors: Effectiveness for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Abstract

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects 5% of men and 10% of women in the general population and is associated with a host of mental health problems (Rosenbaum, 2004). Mindfulness is a practice used in successful interventions that teaches nonjudgmental awareness and acceptance of the current moment. These treatments have successfully treated individuals with depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and addiction (Baer, 2003). Therefore, mindfulness can be an excellent tool for those suffering from PTSD. This paper discusses the characteristics of mindfulness, describes several mindfulness-based therapies, and evaluates the efficacy of these treatments. PTSD is addressed as well, including symptoms, available treatments, and the weaknesses of those treatments. Finally, the justification of using mindfulness-based therapies for PTSD, the current research investigating mindfulness for PTSD, and examples of mindfulness-based treatments in use for PTSD is discussed.