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PTSD & Art Therapy
Information about art therapy, trauma and PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), how people with PTSD use art therapy, how it can help with trauma, etc.
PTSD Treated With Ecstasy (MDMA)
This isn’t directly related to art therapy, but it’s still very interesting news for those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). A study of veterans that began 6 years ago has caused a stir with its recent findings that MDMA, the active ingredient found in ecstasy, can be used to effectively treat symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) began this study of MDMA and PTSD about 6 years ago in 2004. It was the first clinical trial of a psychedelic drug in 35 years.
One person was constantly angry, had haunting nightmares, and he withdrew and became isolated. He was daignosed with PTSD. He grew desperate after months of therapy, and eventually became part of the test. He swallowed a tablet, and after a few sessions assisted by ecstasy, his PTSD symptoms were “completely eliminated.”
This could be a huge breakthrough considering the seriousness and challenges that come with PTSD. Below is an article from TimesOnline.co.uk about how ecstasy (MDMA) changed Donna’s life after she was raped years before. Continue reading »
Filed as PTSD & Art Therapy | Comments (3)Art Therapy Aids Trauma Recovery, Helps Indigenous Women Heal
Every once in a while a truly inspiring and touching story comes along. I’d like to share one of these stories with you today. It’s a story about art therapy helping indigenous women in Australia overcome trauma. It brought tears to my eyes once before, and I was ecstatic to follow up and share with you this wonderful story again.
The following is an exclusive look into the wonderful work that Lee George is doing in Australia (want to make a difference? check out some art therapy schools in Australia) to help indigenous women overcome so much trauma. She is proof that one person can make a big difference. I’m honored to share her story and hope it is as inspiring for you as it is me. An image gallery and slide presentation are below as well. Enjoy… Continue reading »
Filed as PTSD & Art Therapy | Comments (7)New PTSD Program for Military Patients Includes Art Therapy, Other Treatments
It’s always great to see new progress when it comes to helping those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). One of the more recent developments comes from the Army. A new Post Traumatic Stress Disorder program at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC) in Germany arose when they realized many soldiers needed therapy more than once or twice a week.
Beginning in March of 2009, the new PTSD program is an 8-week day treatment program referred to as “evolution” at the LRMC. The program includes a variety of evidence-based treatments and while art therapy is included in these treatments, there are many additional disciplines that play a role as well. Continue reading »
Filed as PTSD & Art Therapy | Comments (2)Art Therapy Shows Promise in Treatment of PTSD & Trauma
**The following press release was originally written by Cathy Malchiodi, ATR-BC, Professional Relations for American Art Therapy Association (AATA).
Recent Research Efforts Identify Treatments with Children, Adolescents, and Adults
Recent research involving children and adolescents with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) indicates that art therapy may be a promising treatment. PTSD is an emotional disorder that may be caused by a one-time traumatic event, such as natural or man-made disaster, or by repeated traumatic experiences such as physical abuse, community violence, or maltreatment. Children and adolescents Continue reading »
