September 3, 2023
It Replaces Negative Thoughts with Positive and Realistic Ones
Photo by Keira Burton under Pexels License
At some point in their lives, 7 out of every 100 veterans are expected to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to the National Center for PTSD.
If not treated properly or in time, the symptoms of this mental disorder can take a heavy toll on the mental health and well-being of patients.
This is where cognitive processing therapy (CPT) comes in. A type of psychotherapy that has been proven effective in treating PTSD, CPT helps sufferers reduce their symptoms and eventually live a PTSD-free life.
What Is Cognitive Processing Therapy?
CPT was developed specifically for the treatment of PTSD. It aims to help people with the disorder change the way they think about the traumatic events that caused their affliction. The therapy does this by teaching patients how to identify and challenge the negative thoughts and beliefs that are causing their symptoms.
By doing this, they learn to replace negative thoughts with positive and realistic ones, which helps reduce their symptoms and improve their well-being.
CPT is a short-term treatment that can be completed in 12-16 weeks. CPT is also a relatively affordable treatment.
How Does CPT Work?
CPT is based on the idea that the way we think about traumatic events can contribute to the development of PTSD symptoms. For example, those with PTSD may have negative thoughts about themselves, such as “I am weak” or “I am a failure.” These thoughts are bound to lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and hopelessness, which can then trigger symptoms of PTSD.
Through a process called cognitive restructuring, patients are taught to identify such thoughts and challenge them. This is where they learn to replace their negative beliefs with positive and realistic ones.
In addition to cognitive restructuring, CPT also involves education about PTSD, relaxation techniques, and homework assignments that reinforce what is learned in therapy sessions.
How Does It Specifically Help Veterans with PTSD?
Here are some of the specific ways that CPT helps veterans with PTSD:
- Improves coping skills
CPT helps veterans work on their coping skills by teaching them how to recognize and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs. This makes it easier for them to handle conflicting situations in the future.
- Enhances quality of life
Eliminating PTSD symptoms means improving the overall quality of life for veterans. They may experience less anxiety and depression, and they won’t have to deal with unwanted thoughts constantly entering their minds anymore, leading to better functioning in day-to-day life.
- Improves relationships
PTSD can strain relationships. CPT is there to ensure that those relationships are restored. Through the therapy, vets will feel more able to connect with loved ones and communicate effectively with them.
- Provides a safe and supportive environment
CPT offers an atmosphere where vets can explore their experiences and emotions without judgment. As a result, they feel more open and comfortable sharing their vulnerability during therapy.
- Tailored to individual needs
CPT is tailored to meet the specific needs of a PTSD patient. Therapists do this knowing that every veteran faces unique experiences that caused them to develop PTSD. In doing so, this personalized treatment has been proven effective in alleviating PTSD symptoms.
Want to Extend a Helping Hand to the Hurting Vets in Your Area?
What if we told you that you can turn your clapped-out car into a potent tool for helping our struggling veterans get back on their feet? You can do that by donating that vehicle to us at Veteran Car Donations.
We’ll auction off your vehicle, with the proceeds going straight to our veteran-focused charity partners. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping former U.S. service members who have become homeless and impoverished, those who can’t find decent jobs, and those who are suffering from service-connected disabilities and serious illnesses, including mental health issues.
Our nonprofit partners use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with housing and financial assistance, employment and livelihood opportunities, family support, free quality health care and medical treatment, psychotherapy services, scholarships, and many other benefits.
You’ll also benefit from your charitable contribution. We’ll pick up and tow your vehicle at no cost to you anywhere in the country. You’ll also have the privilege to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.
However, these material rewards may pale in comparison to the priceless joy of knowing that you’re doing something that will give needy veterans in your area all the help they need to turn their lives around.
Since we’re willing to accept nearly all vehicle types, feel free to donate whatever vehicle you have regardless of its age and condition.
To learn more about Veteran Car Donations, including our quick and easy donation process, check out our FAQs page. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 877-594-5822 or message us here.
Photo by Alexander Wendt under Pexels License
Touch the Lives of Our Heroes Today!
Give back to our nation’s heroes by simply donating your unwanted vehicle to us. It’s one of the simplest yet most effective ways to uplift their lives. Call Veteran Car Donations at 877-594-5822 or fill out this secure donation form now!