Feasibility and Acceptability of a Brief Mindfulness Program for Veterans in Primary Care with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Mindfulness-based stress reduction programs have improved psychological health for clinical populations including veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Veterans with PTSD who seek services in Department of Veterans Affairs primary care are especially in need of brief treatments that can alleviate PTSD symptoms. A clinical demonstration project was carried out to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a brief mindfulness program consisting of four weekly 1.5-h class sessions. Veterans enrolled in primary care with diagnostic or subthreshold PTSD were recruited. The brief mindfulness intervention was feasible to deliver, and veterans were generally satisfied with the program. Despite good retention once a class session was attended, a large number of veterans provided a variety of reasons for not attending the program at all. Veteran feedback that can be addressed to improve the brief mindfulness program is discussed, including enhancing initial attendance.