Music-instruction Intervention for Treatment of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Music-instruction Intervention for Treatment of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: A Randomized Pilot Study

The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility and potential effectiveness of an active, music-instruction intervention in improving psychological health and social functioning among Veterans suffering from moderate to severe Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

The study was designed as a prospective, delayed-entry randomized pilot trial. Regression-adjusted difference in means were used to examine the intervention's effectiveness with respect to PTSD symptomatology (primary outcome) as well as depression, perceptions of cognitive failures, social functioning and isolation, and health-related quality of life (secondary outcomes).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Veterans who (i) had at least one visit for mental health treatment in the prior six months with a primary diagnosis of PTSD (ICD9CM 309.81-83) and (ii) exhibited moderate to severe PTSD symptoms at the time of enrollment (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist >=50)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Veterans who were currently participating in an intense psychotherapy program (residential or outpatient)
• Veterans who were already receiving guitar lessons from a Guitars for Vets volunteer