Stress-recovery program open to noncombat vets

Question: I was not a combat veteran; can I be seen in the Traumatic Stress Recovery Program?

Answer: Veterans who experienced training accidents or unwanted sexual experiences while in the military might be eligible for traumatic stress recovery program services if those traumatic events continue to interfere with their lives or cause them distress.

Q: Does the Department of Veterans Affairs offer evidence-therapies for post-traumatic stress disorder?

A: Yes, the VA is disseminating a number of research-supported treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder, including prolonged exposure and cognitive processing therapy. Both therapies have been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD.

Q: Does the Traumatic Stress Recovery Program offer after-clinic hours, especially for our younger and most recent veterans who might be in school or at work?

A: Yes, the program is available on Tuesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. For additional information, contact the VA Medical Center at 433-0600.

If you have questions about your benefits as a veteran, call Fred Ballard at the Veterans Affairs at 433-0049 or visit the VA Web site at www.va.gov/hawaii or the Star-Bulletin at 529-4747.

Gregg K. Kakesako, who covers military affairs for the Star-Bulletin, can be reached by phone at 294-4075 or by e-mail at gkakesako@starbulletin.com. See also: In The Military