COMBAT-RELATED POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER: THE BATTLE TO RETURN TO CIVILIAN LIFE Kristen Brant, BS, Amanda Griffith, BA, & Alison Damico, BA Department of Occupational Therapy School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences University of Pittsburgh

THE CHALLENGE OF LIVING WITH PTSD

ENGAGING IN MEANINGFUL OCCUPATIONS

PERSON-ENVIRONMENT-OCCUPATION (PEO) MODEL Person Environment Occupation (activities) Performance

PEO MODEL Person PTSD (signs & symptoms)

PEO MODEL Environment Classrooms People Public spaces Attitudes

PEO MODEL Occupation (activities) Attendance Participation Learning Tests Assignments Instructions Communication Transportation Extra-curricular activities

THE CHALLENGE OF LIVING WITH PTSD

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS Modifying the Environment and Activities Educating instructors and students Meeting s prior to term starting Small class sizes Self-selection of classroom seating Scheduled meetings Tutoring program “Welcome” signs and announcements Acknowledging and celebrating veterans Designated area to study and socialize

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS (CONT.) Modifying the Environment and Activities Designated parking Well-lighted walkways and areas In-class use of computers Breaks during testing Extended and flexible timeframes Flexible class attendance policies Videotaped lectures Online learning options

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS (CONT.) Modifying the Environment and Activities Peer mentoring program First-year veteran-only courses Designated veteran housing

SUCCESS AND EMPOWERMENT

DISCUSSION / QUESTIONS Combat –Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: The Battle to Return to Civilian Life Kristen Brant, BS Amanda Griffith, BA Alison Damico, BA Master of Occupational Therapy Students Department of Occupational Therapy University of Pittsburgh