Two pilot studies examined the effects of Transcendental Meditation on the symptoms of PTS. In both cases, veterans experienced dramatic reductions in symptoms of PTS and increased quality of life.
Effects of TM on OEF/OIF Veterans with PTS
Through the Transcendental Meditation technique
Military Medicine 176 (6): 626-630, 2011
This recently conducted pilot examines the efficacy of the TM technique for treating OEF/OIF veterans with PTS. By the eighth week of practicing TM, veterans experienced a 50 percent reduction in PTS symptoms, according to the Clinician-Administered PTS Scale (the gold standard of PTS testing). The veterans also reported decreased depression and improved quality of life—showing a greater ability to return to their lives after the war. This study replicates and extends the results of earlier performed research, shown in charts 2 and 3.
Chart 1 of 3
Decreased Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress (RTC)
Through the Transcendental Meditation technique
Journal of Counseling and Development 64: 212–215, 1985
This landmark study, conducted at a Denver Veterans Center, pioneered the investigation into the effects of the TM technique on veterans suffering from PTS. The veterans were randomly assigned to TM or conventional counseling. After just three months of practice, the veterans experienced across-the-board reductions in emotional numbness, anxiety, and PTS symptoms.
Chart 2 of 3
Decreased Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress (RTC)
Through the Transcendental Meditation technique
Journal of Counseling and Development 64: 212–215, 1985
The Vietnam veterans also experienced reductions in alcohol usage, insomnia, and depression. At the conclusion of the study, three months later, 70 percent of veterans found that they no longer required the services of the Denver Veterans Center where they were being treated.
Chart 3 of 3
