The Evidence
Research on the Transcendental Meditation technique has demonstrated its effectiveness in providing relief from the symptoms of PTS—and treating a number of the comorbidities associated with the illness. Findings include:
Reduced PTS: 40–50 percent reduction in PTS symptoms, including depression
(see PTS)
Greater resiliency: Reduced stress levels and quicker recovery from stress
(see Resiliency to Stress)
Reduced cardiovascular disease: Decreased blood pressure, harmful cholesterol, and atherosclerosis; and a 47 percent reduction in cardiovascular-related mortality (see
Cardiovascular Disease)
Decreased substance abuse: Decreased smoking, alcohol, and drug abuse
(see Substance Abuse)
Decreased medical expenditures: 14 percent reduction in annual medical expenditures, as compared to the norm (see Decreased Healthcare Utilization)
“The idea that we now have a new approach that can,
in a powerful, simple and profound way, help people, without
ongoing input by mental health professionals, is very exciting,
especially in this era of diminishing resources.”
—Dr. Norman Rosenthal
