The Benefits of Art Therapy and Self-Expression for Veterans with PTSD

By Douglas Reeves

Introduction

An award-winning researcher and author, Dr. Douglas Reeves founded the Leadership and Learning Center before establishing The Center for Successful Leadership. Dr. Douglas Reeves also utilizes his widespread expertise to serve as the copublisher of The SNAFU Review, a publication that features writings and art by veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Veterans with PTSD

According to the American Art Therapy Association (AATA), veterans with PTSD can experience a wide range of benefits by participating in art therapy or the use of art-based techniques to express thoughts and feelings. The AATA notes that PTSD is characterized by numerous symptoms, such as anxiety and avoidance behaviors, that can dramatically impede daily functioning, family relationships, and job performance.

Conclusion

By creating art, veterans with PTSD can verbalize and resolve traumatic memories, while developing coping skills and releasing stress. The act of self-expression has additionally been associated with feelings of self-worth and positive emotions. Through the public sharing of their art, veterans with PTSD can also communicate their experience to a wider audience and reconnect with their communities.