1 2015 lLisa Najavits, PhD / Treatment lnnovations PTSD DSM-V definition: After a trauma (the experience, threat, or witnessing of physical harm, e.9., rape, hurricane), the person has each of the following key symptoms for over a month, and they result in decreased ability to function (e.9., work, social life): intrusion (e.9., flashbacks, nightmares); avoidance (not wanting to talk about it or remember); neqative thouqhts and mood; and arousal (e.9., insomnia, anger). Simple PTSD results from a sin gle event in adulthood (DSM-V symptoms); Complex PTSD is not a DSM term but may result from multiple traumas, typically in childhood (broad symptoms, including personality problems) Rates: lOVo tor women, 5o/o for men (lifetime, U.S.). Up to 1/3 of people exposed to trauma develop PTSD. Treatment: if untreated , PTSD can last for decades; if treated, people can recover. Evidence-based treatments include coqnitive-behavioral- coping skills training and exposure, i.e., processing the trauma story. Substance Abuse "The compulsion to use despite negative consequences" (e.9., legal, physical, social, psychological). Note that neither amount of use nor physical dependence define substance abuse. DSM-V term is "substance-related and addictive disorder", which can be mild, moderate, or severe. Rates: 35% for men; 1 8o/o tor women (lifetime, U.S.) It is treatable disorder and a "no-fault" disorder (i.e., not a moralweakness) Two ways to oive it up: "cold turkey" (give up all substances forever; abstinence model) or "warm turkey" (harm reduction, in which any reduction in use is a positive step); moderation managemenf, some people can use in a controlled fashion- but only those not dependent on substances, and without co-occurring disorders). The Link Between PTSD and Substance Abuse About PTSD and substance abuse Rates: Of clients in substance abuse treatment, 12o/o-34o/o have current PTSD. For women, rates are 33Yo-59o/o. Gender. For women, typically a history of sexual or physical childhOod trauma; for men, combat or crime Drug choice: No one drug of choice, but PTSD is associated with severe drugs (cocaine, opioids); in 213 of cases the PTSD occurs first, then substance abuse. Treatment issues Other life problems are common: other Axis I disorders , personality disorders, interpersonal and medical problems, inpatient admissions, low compliance with aftercare, homelessness, domestic violence. PTSD does not qo awav with abstinence from substances; and, PTSD symptoms are widely reported to become worse with initial abstinence. Splits in treatm ent svstems (mental health versus substance abuse) Fraqile treatment alliances and multiple crises are common. Treatments helpful for either disorder alone may be problematic if someone has both disorders (e^9., emotionally intense exposure therapies, benzodiazepines), and should be evaluated carefully prior to use. Recommended treatment strateg ies Treat both disorders at the same time. Research supports this and clients prefer this. Decide how to treat PTSD in context of active substance abuse. Options: (1) Focus on present onlv (coping skills, psychoeducation, educate about symptoms) [safest approach, widely recommended]. (2) Focus on past onlv (tell the trauma story) [high risk; works for some clients] (3) Focus on both present and past Diversity lssues ln the US, rates of PTSD do not differ by race (Kessler et al., 1995). Substance abuse: Hispanics and African-Americans have lower rates than Caucasians; Native Americans have higher rates than Caucasians (Kessler et al., 1995, 2005). Rates of abuse increase with acculturation. Some cultures have protective factors (religion, kinship). It is important to respect cultural differences and tailor treatment to be sensitive to historical prejudice. Also, terms such as "trauma,"'PTSD," and "substance abuse" may be interpreted differently based on culture. 2 Seeking Safety About Seeking Safety * * A present-focused model to help clients (male and female) attain safetv from PTSD and substance abuse. 25 topics that can be conducted in anv order: o lnterpersonal topics: Honesty, Asking for Help, Setting Boundaries in Relationships, Getting Others to Support Your Recovery, Healthy Relationships, Community Resources Coqnitive topics: PTSD: Taking Back Your Power, Compassion, When Substances Control You, Creating Meaning, Discovery, lntegrating the Split Self, Recovery Thinking o Behavioral topics: Taking Good Care of Yourself, Commitment, Respecting Your Time, Coping with Triggers, Self-Nurturing, Red and Green Flags, Detaching from Emotional Pain (Grounding) o Other topics: lntroduction/Case Management, Safety, Life Choices, Termination Desiqned for flexible use: can be conducted in group or individual format; for women, men, or mixedgender; using all topics or fewer topics; in a variety of settings; and with a variety of providers. ¡ * Key principles of Seeking Safety cø Safetv as the goal for first-stage treatment (later stages are mourning and reconnection) <ø lnteqrated treatment (treat both disorders at the same time) cß Afocus on ideals to counteract the loss of ideals in both PTSD and substance abuse <ø Four content areas: cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, case management cø Attention to clinician processes: balance praise and accountability; notice your own emotional responses (fear, wish to control, joy in the work, disappointment); all-out effort; self-care Additional features x Trauma details not part of qroup therapy; in individual therapy, assess client's safety and monitor carefully (particularly if has history of severe trauma, or if client is actively using substances) * ldentifv meaninqs of substance use in context of PTSD (to remember, to forget, to numb, to feel, etc.) * Optimistic: focus on strengths and future x Help clients obtain more treatment and attend to daily life problems (housing, AIDS, jobs) * Harm reduction model or abstinence * 12-step qroups encouraqed. not required * Empower clients whenever possible * Make the treatment engaginq: quotations, everyday language * Emphasize core concepts (e.9., "YorJ can get better") Evidence Base Seeking Safety is an evidence-based model, with over 20 studies and consistently positive results. For all studies, go to www.seekinqsafety.org, section Evidence. Studies include pilots, randomized controlled trials, multi-site trials. Resources on Seekrng Safety. All below are available from www.seekingsafetv.org and/or from the order form at the end of this packet of handouts. * lmplementation / research articles: all articles related to Seeking Safety can be freely downloaded. * Training: training calendar and information on setting up a training (section Training). * Consultation: on clinical implementation, research studies, evaluation projects. * Fidelity Scale: free download (section Assessment). * Book: Seeking Safety: A Treatment Manualfor PTSD and Substance Abuse. Has the clinician guide and all client handouts. Also available in Spanish, French, German, Swedish, Dutch, Polish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Portuguese. By late 2015, Japanese and Greek will also be available. + DVD training series: four videos provide training on Seeking Safety. (1) Seeking Safety (two hour training video by Lisa Najavits); (2) Asking for Help (one-hour demonstration of a group session with real clients); (3) A Clienf's Sfory (26 minute unscripted life story by a male trauma survivor) and Teaching Grounding (16 minute example of the grounding script from Seeking Safety with a male client): (4) Adherence Session (one hour session that can be rated with the Seeking Safety Adherence Scale). 3 * * * Online learning Teaching Guide to lntroduce Seeking Safety to your agency Poster: poster of over 80 safe coping skills, full-color, scenic background; large format (24 x 3O") or 1-page format (in English or Spanish). * Gard deck: all of the safe coping skills and quotations on cards, with ideas for games. English or Spanish. * Magnets, key chain to remind clients of the skills. Gontact lnformation Contact: Lisa Najavits, PhD, Treatment lnnovations, 28 Westbourne Road, Newton Centre, MA02478;617299-1610 [phone]; [email protected] [email]; www.seekinosafetv.orq or www. www.treatmenþ innovations.org [web] Would you like to be added to the Seeking Safetv website to list that you conduct Seekino Safety? If so, please email [email protected] your basic information OR fill out the online entry on the website. Example: Boston, MA: Karen Smith, LICSW; group and individual Seeking Safety; private practice with sliding scale. 6 1 7-300-1 234. Karensm ith@netzero. com. Resources on Substance Abuse and Trauma a) Substance abuse National Clearinqhouse for Alcohol and Druq lnformation National Drug lnformation, Treatment & Referral Hotline Alcoholics Anonvmous SMART Recovery (alternative to AA) Addiction Technoloqv Transfer Centers Harm Reduction Coalition b) Trauma / PTSD lnternational Society for Traumatic Stress Studies lnternational Society for the Study of Dissociation National Centers for PTSD (extensive literature on PTSD) National Child Traumatic Stress Network National Center for Trauma-lnformed Care National Resource Center on Domestic Violence Department of Veterans Affairs EM DR I nternational Association Communitv screening for PTSD and other disorders Sidran Foundation (trauma information, support) 800-729-6686 ; www. health. ors 800-662-H ELP, http://csat.samsha.qov 800-637-6237 ; wr¡vw. aa. org www.smartrecovery.org www.nattc.orq 21 2-21 3-6376 ; www. harmreduction. org 708-480-9028; www. istss. orq 847 -480-9282 ; www. issd. org 802-296-5 1 32; www. ptsd.va. gov 31 0-235-2633; www. nctsn. org 866-254-481 9 ; m ental health. sam hsa. g ov/ncti c 800-537 -2238; www. n rcdv. org 800-827 -1000; www. ptsd.va. gov 866-45 1 -5200; www.emdria.org www. m ental healthscreen nq. orq 41 0-825-8888 ; www. si d ra n. org i 4 Educational Materials Books on PTSD 1. 2. Herman J. L. (1992). Trauma and Recoverv. New York, Basic Books. Pearlman, L.4., & Saakvitne, K. W. (1995). Trauma and the Therapist: Countertransference and Vicarious Traumatization in Psvchotherapv with lncest Survivors. New York: \AAff Norton. 3. Briere, J.N. & Scott, C. (2006). Principles of Trauma Therapv: A Guide to Svmptoms, Evaluation, and Treatment. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. 4. Fallot, R.D. & Harris, M. (200f ). Usinq Trauma Theorv to Desiqn Service Svstems. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. 5. Hoge, C. C. (2010). Once a Warrior--Always a Warrior: Navigating the Transition from Combat to Home--lncluding Combat Stress, PTSD, and mTBl. GPP Life Press. Books on Substance Abuse 1. Beck A. T., Wright J., et al. (1993). Coonitive Therapv of Substance Abuse. New York: Guilford. 2. Marlatt G., Gordon J. (1985). Relapse Prevention. NewYork: Guilford. 3. Fletcher, A. (2001). SoberforGood. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. 4. Najavits L. M. (2002). A Woman's Addiction Workbook. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger. 5. Miller, W. R., Zweben, 4., et al. (1995). Motivational Enhancement Therapv Manual (Vol. 2). Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Free from www.health.org. Books on PTSD and Substance Abuse 1. Najavits L. M. (2002). Seekino Safetv: A Treatment Manual for PTSD and Substance Abuse. New York: Guilford Spanr'sh and I other translations also available (vwvw.seekingsafety.org) 2. Ouimette, P. & Read, J. (2013) Trauma and Substance Abuse: Causes. Consequences, and Treatment of Comorbid Disorders (2nd edition). Washington, DC: American PsychologicalAssociation Press. Videos a) Najavits, L.M. (2006). Video training series on Seeking Safety; www.treatment-innovations.org. b) Najavits, L.M., Abueg F, Brown PJ, et al. (1998). Nevada City, CA: Cavalcade [800-345-5530]. Trauma and substance abuse. Part l: Therapeutic approaches lFor professionalsl;Part ll: Special treatment issues lFor professionalsl; Numbinq the Pain: Substance abuse and psvcholoqical trauma lFor clientsl Clinicallv-Relevant Articles start h 1. Seal, KH, Bertenthal, D, Miner, CR, Sen, S, Marmar, C (2007). Bringing thewar back home: mental health disorders among 103 788 us veterans returning from lraq and Afghanistan seen at Department of Veterans Affairs facilities. Arcfi I nte m Med. 2007 ;1 67 (Q:a7 6-482. 2. Golier, J.A., Yehuda, R. et al. (2003). The relationship of borderline personality disorder to posttraumatic stress disorder and traumatic events. American J PsvchiatrvJ60, 2018-24. 3. Najavits, LM, Schmitz, M, Johnson, KM, Smith, C, North, T et al. (2009). Seeking Safety therapy for men: Clinical and research experiences. ln Men and Addictions. Nova Science Publishers, Hauppauge, NY. 4. Brady, K.T., Dansky, B.S. et al. (2001). Exposure therapy in the treatment of PTSD among cocaine-dependent individuals: Preliminary fìndings. J Substance Abuse Treatment. 21 ,47-54. 5. Bradley, R., Greene J., et al. (2005). A multidimensional meta-analysis of psychotherapy for PTSD. American Journal of Psychiatry, 162, 214-227 . 6. Kessler, R.C., Sonnegâ, A., et al. (1995). Posttraumatic stress disorder in the national comorbidity survey. Archives of General Psvchiatrv, 52, 1048-1 060. [Provides rafes/ 7. Najavits, L.M. (2004). Assessment of trauma, PTSD, and substance use disorder: A practicalguide. ln J. P. Wilson & T. M. Keane (Eds.), Assessment of PsychologicalTrauma and PTSD (pp. 466-491). New York: Guilford. L Ougrin D. (201 1). Efficacy of exposure versus cognitive therapy in anxiety disorders: systematic review and metaanalysis. BMC Psychiatry. 1 1(1):200. 9. Vogelmann-Sine, S., Sine, L., et al. (f 998). EMDR: Chemical Dependencv Treatment Manual. Unpublished manuscript, Honolulu, Hawaii. 10. Najavits, L., Highley, J., Dolan, S., & Fee, F. (2012). Substance use disorder, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury. ln J. Vasterling, R. Bryant & T. Keane (Eds.), PISD and Mild Traumatic Brain lnjury. New York: Guilford Press 1 1. Najavits LM (2007). Psychosocial treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder. ln P. E. Nathan & J. Gorman, A Guide to Treatments that Work (3rd ed.). Oxford Press: New York. 12. Brown et al. (2O07). lmplementing an evidence-based practice: Seeking Safety group. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 39,231-240. Pubmed lmedical literature): http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.govlenlrezl 5 Safe C oping Skills (Part 1) from "Seeking Safety: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy for PTSD and Substance Abuse" by Lisa M. Najavits, Ph.D. l. Ask for help'Reach safe 2. Inspire yourself- Carry something positive (e.g., poem), or negative (photo of friend who overdosed) 3. Leave a bad scene- When things go \ilrong, get out 4. PersistNever, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never give up 5. Honesty- Secrets and lying are at the core of out tosomeone PTSD and substance abuse; honesty heals respect- Choose whatever them 6. Gry. Let yourself cry; it will not last forever 7. Choose self- will make you like yourself tomorrow 8. Take good care of your body- Eat right, sex 9. List your options- choices 10. Greate meaningRemind yourself what you are living for: your children? Love? Truth? Justice? God? 11. Do the best you can with what you have- Make the most of available opportunities 12. Set a boundary- Say ,.no,, to protect yourself 13. Compassion- Listento yourself withrespectandcare 14. When in doubt, do what's hardest'The most difficult path is invariably the right one 15. Tatk yourself through it- Self-talk helps in difficult times 16, lmaginê- Create a mental picture that helps you feel different (e.g., remember a safe place) exercise, sleep, safe In any.situation, you have 17. Notice the choice point- In slow motion, notice the exact moment when you chose a substance 18. Pace yourself- If overwhelmed, go slower; if stagnant, go faster lg. Stay safe- Do whatever you need to do to put your safety above all 20. Seek understanding, not blame- Listen to your behavior; blaming prevents growth 21-lf onewaydoesn'twork, tryanothef-Asif in aÍnaze,turnacornerandtryanewparh 22.LinkPTSD and substance abusê- Recognize substances as an attempt ro self- medicate 23. Alone is better than a bad relationship- If onty treaters are safe for now, that's okay 24. Create a new story- you are the author of your life: be the hero who overcomes adversity 25. Avoid avoidable suffering- Prevent bad situations in advance 26. Ask others' Ask others if your belief is accurate 27 . Get organized- You'll feel more in control with lists, "to do's" and a clean house 28. Watch for danger signs- Face a problem before it becomes huge; notice red flags 29. Healing above allthan a perfect one Focus on what matters 30. Try something, an¡rthing- A good plan today is better tomonow 31. Discovery- head' 32' Attend treatment33. Create a buffer- Find out whether your assumption is hue rather than staying "in your AA, self-help, therapy, medications, groups- anything that keeps you going distance) 34. Say what you realty think- You'll feel closer to others (but only do this with safe people) 35. Listen to your needs- No more neglectreallyhear what youneed 36. Move toward your opposite- E.g.,if youaretoo dependent,trybeing more independent 37. Replay the scene- Review a negative event: what can you do differently next time? 38. Notice the cost- What is the price of substance abuse in your life? 39. Structure your day- e productive Put something between you and danger (e.g., time, schedule keeps you on track and connected to the world 40. Set an action plan- othersknowaboutit 4l . Protect yourself- Be specific, set a deadline, and let Put upa shieldagainstdestructivepeople,badenvironments, substances 42. Soothing talk- Talk to yourself very gently (as if to and a friend or small child) With appreciation to the Allies Program (Sacramento, CA) for formatting this Safe Coping List. @ Guilford Press, New York. From: Najavits, L.M. Seekrng Safety: A Treatment Manual for PTSD and Substance Abuse (2002). Only for personal use (with clients); for any other use contact <[email protected]> or <[email protected]> 6 Safe Gop rn g Skills (Parr2) from "Seeking Safety: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy for PTSD and Substance Abuse" by Lisa M. Najavits, Ph.D. 43. Think of the consequencês- Really see the impact for tomorrow, next weeh next year 44. Trust the process- Just keep moving forward; the only way out is through 45. Work the material- The more you practice healing 46. lntegrate the split self- Accept all sides of yourself; they are there for a r€ason 47. Expect growth to feel uncomfortable- trit feels awkwa¡d or difficult you,re doing it right andparticipate, the quicker the 48. Replace destructive activitieshow different the day past or futüe Eat candy instead of gening feels 50. Focus on now- high 49. Pretend you tike yourself- See Do what you can to make today beuer; don't get overwhelmed by the 51. Praise yourself- Notice what you did right; this is the most powerful method of growth 52. Observe repeating patterns- Try to notice and understand your re-enactmenrs 53. Self- nurture- Do movie) 54. Practice delay- If you can't totally prevent a selÊ destructive act, at least delay it as long as possible 55. Let go of destructive relationshlps- If it can't be fixed, detach 56. Take responsibility- fak an active, not a passive approach 57.Set a deadline- Make it happen something that you enjoy (e.g., take by setting a date 58. Make a a walk, see a commitment- Promise yourself to do what's right to help your recovery 59. Rethink- Think in a way that helps you feel bener 60. Detach from emotional pain (grounding)Distract walk away, change the channel 61. Learn from experience- Seek wisdom that can help you next time 62' Solve the problem- Don't take it personally when things go wrong- rry to just seek a solution 63. Use kinder language- Make your language less ha¡sh 64. Examine the evidence- Evaluats both sides of the picture 65. Plan it out- Take the time to think ahead-it's the opposite of For example, shoulds, deprivation reasoning 67. right Reward yourself- Find 68. Greate new "tapes" Literally! Take 69. Find rules to live by' Remember failures- A setback is just a phrase impulsiviry 66. ldentify the beliefa healthy way to celebrate anything you do a tape recorder and record a new way of thinking to play back tlat works for you (e.g., "Stay real') 70. Setbacks are not more 71. Tolerate the feeling- '1.{o feeling is final',, just get through it safely 72. Actions first and feelings will follow- Don't wait until you feel motivared; jusr start now a setback, nothing 73. Greate positive addictions- Sports, hobbies, stay away 75. Fight the trigger- don't feel like it 74. When in doubt, don't- If you suspec Take an active approach to protect you accept criticism or advice, notice who's telling it to best solution you can right now; don't 4,l... wait you danger, yourself 76. Notice the source- Before 77. Make a decision- If you're stuck, try choosing the 78. Do the right thing- Do what you know will help you, even if you 79. Go to a meeting- Feet fust; just get there and let rhe rest happen 80. Proteet your body from HIV' This is truly a life-or-death issue 81. Prioritize healing- Make healing your most urgent and important goal, above all else 82. Reach for community resourcês- Lean on them! They can be a source of great support 83. Get others to support your recover!- Tetl people what you need 84. Notice what you can cOntrOl- List the aspects of your life you do control (e.g., job, friends...) @ Gu¡lforO Press, New York. From: Najavits, L.M. Seeking Safety: A Treatment Manual for PTSD and Substance Abuse Only for personal use (with clients); for any other use contact <infoseekingsafety.org> or <[email protected]> (2OO2). 7 Lisa Na PhD Deta From Emotional Pain Groundi WHAT IS GROUNDING? Grounding is a set of simple strategies lo detach from emotional pain (for example, drug cravings, self-harm impulses, anger, sadness). Distraction works by focusing outward on the external world-- rather than inward toward the self. You can also think of it as "distraction," "centering," "a safe place," "looking outward," or "healthv detachment." WHY DO GROUNDING? When you are ovenruhelmed with emotional pain, you need a way to detach so that you can gain control over your feelings and stay safe. As long as you are grounding, you cannot possibly use substances or hurt yourself! Grounding "anchors" you to the present and to reality. Many people with PTSD and substance abuse struggle with either feeling too much (overwhelming emotions and memories) or too little (numbing and dissociation). ln grounding, you attain balance between the two-- conscious of reality and able to tolerate it. Guidelines t Grounding can be done any time, any place. anywhere and no one has to know. t Use grounding when you are: faced with a triqqer, havino a flashback, dissociatino, havinq a substance cravino, or when vour emotional pain ooes above 6 (on a 0-10 scale). Grounding puts healthy distance between you and these negative feelings. t Keep your eves open. scan the room, and turn the liqht on to stay in touch with the present. I Rate vour mood before and after to test whether it worked. Before grounding, rate your level of emotional pain (0-10, where means "extreme pain"). Then re-rate it aftenruards. Has it gone down? r No talkinq about neqative feelinqs or iournalwritinq. You want to distract away from negative feelings, not get in touch with them. a Stav neutral- no judgments of "good" and "bad". For example, "The walls are blue; I dislike blue because it reminds me of depression." Simply say "The walls are blue" and move on. I Focus on the present, not the past or future. o Note that qroundinq is nof the same as relaxation traininq. Ground ing is much more active, focuses on distraction strategies, and is intended to help extreme negative feelings. lt is believed to be more effective for PTSD than relaxation training. WAYS TO GROUND Mental Groundinq <ø Describe vour environment in detail using all your senses. For example, "The walls are white, there are five pink chairs, there is a wooden bookshelf against the wall..." Describe objects, sounds, textures, colors, smells, shapes, numbers, and temperature. You can do this anywhere. For example, on the subway: "l'm on the subway. l'll see the river soon. Those are the windows. This is the bench. The metal bar is silver. The subway map has four colors..." <¡6 Plav a "cateqories" qame with yourself. Try to think of "types of dogs", "jazz musidans", "states that begin with '4"', "cars", "TV shows", "writers", "sports", "songs", "ELlropean cities." rø Do an age progression. lf you have regressed to a younger age (e.9., I years old), you can slowly work your way back up (e.9., "l'm now g"; "l'm now 10"; "l'm now 11"...) until you are back to your current age. <ø Describe an everydav activity in great detail. For example, describe a meal that you cook (e.9., "First I peel the potatoes and cut them into quarters, then I boil the water, I make an herb marinade of oregano, basil, gadic, and olive oil..."). <ø lmagine. Use an image: Glide along on skafes away from your pain; change the TV channelto get to a better show; think of a wall as a buffer between you and your pain. u Say a safety statement. "My name is _, I am safe right now. I am in the present, not the past. I am located in _; the date is _." <ø Read something, saying each word to yourself. Or read each letter backwards so that you focus on the letters and not on the meaning of words. <ø Use humor. Think of something funny to jolt yourself out of your mood. <ø Count to 10 or say the alphabet, very s..1..o..w..1..y. <¡s Repeat a favorite savinq to yourself over and over (e.9., the Serenity Prayer). I Phvsical Groundinq a a a a a a a o a a o Run cool or warm water over vour hands. Grab tiqhtly onto your chair as hard as you can. Touch various obiects around vou: a pen, keys, your clothing, the table, the walls. Notice textures, colors, materials, weight, temperature. Compare objects you touch: ls one colder? Lighter? Dig your heels into the floor-- literally "grounding" them! Notice the tension centered in your heels as you do this. Remind yourself that you are connected to the ground. Carrv a qroundinq obiect in vour pockel-- a small object (a small rock, clay, ring, piece of cloth or yarn) that you can touch whenever you feel triggered. Jump up and down. Notice your bodv: The weight of your body in the chair; wiggling your toes in your socks; the feel of your back against the chair. You are connected to the world. Stretch. Extend your fingers, arms or legs as far as you can; roll your head around. Walk slowlv, noticinq each footstep, saying "left","right" with each step. Eat somethino. binq the flavors in detailto yourself Focus on r breathino , noticing each inhale and exhale. Repeat a pleasant word to yourself on each inhale (for example, a favorite color or a soothing word such as "safe," or "easy"). Soothinq Groundinq Sav kind statements, as if you were talking to a small child. E.9., "You are a good person going through a hard time. You'll get through this." , Think of favorites Think of your favorite color, animal, season, food, time of day, TV show Picture people you care about (e.9., your children; and look at photographs of them). Remember the words to an inspirinq sono, quotation, or poem that makes you feel better (e.9., the Serenity Prayer). Remember a safe place. Describe a place that you find very soothing (perhaps the beach or mountains, or a favorite room); focus on everything about that place-- the sounds, colors, shapes, objects, textures. Say a copino statement. "l can handle this", "This feeling will pass." .f. Plan out a safe treat for vourself, such as a piece of candy, a nice dinner, or a warm bath. .¡. Think of things vou are lookinq foruvard to in the next week, perhaps time with a friend or going to a movie. WHAT IF GROUNDING DOES NOT WORK? Practice as often as possible, even when you don't "rìeed" it, so that you'll know it by heart. Practice faster. Speeding up the pace gets you focused on the outside world quickly. Trv orounding for a looooooonnnnngggg time (20-30 minutes). And, repeat, repeat, repeat. Try to notice whether vou do better with "Þhvsical" or "mental" qroundinq. Create your own methods of groundinq. Any method you make up may be worth much more than those you read here because it is yours. Start qrounding early in a neqative mood cycle. Start when the substance craving just starts or when you have just started having a flashback. .t * * * * . o . . o o @ Gu¡ltord Press, New York. From: Najavits, L.M. Seeklng Safety: A Treatment Manual for PTSD and Substance Abuse (2002). Only for personal use (with clients); for any other use contact <infoseekingsafety.org> or <[email protected]> I Lisa Najavits, PhD Taking Good Gare of Yourself Answer each question below "yes" or "no."; if a question does not apply, leøve it blønk. DO YOU... lAssociate only with safe people who do not abuse or hurt you? vHave annual medical check-ups with a: oDoctor? YES_NO _ oEye doctor? YES _No _ oDentist? YES_ NO_ YES_ No _ ¡Gynecologist (women only)? YES _ No _ çEaÍ. a healthful diet? (healthful foods and not under- or over-eating) YES _ NO _ vHave safe sex? YES _ NO _ lTravel in safe areas, avoiding risky situations (e.g., being alone in deserted areas)? YES _ NO _ vGet enough sleep? YES _ NO _ vKeep up with daily hygiene (clean clothes, showers, brushing teeth, etc.)? YES _ NO _ (not NO _ vGet adequate exercise too much nor too little)? YES _ vTake all medications as prescribed? YES _NO_ vMaintain your car so it is not in danger of breaking down? YES _NO _ vAvoid walking or jogging alone at night? YES_ NO vSpend within your financial means? YES_ NO _ -rPay your bills on time? YES_NO _ vKnow who to call if you are facing domestic violence? YES NO vHave safe housing? YES_NO _ vAlways drive substance-free? YES_NO _ vDrive safely (within 5 miles of the speed limit)? YES_NO_ vRefrain from bringing strangers home to your place? YES_ NO _ vCarry cash, ID, and a health insurance card in case of danger? YES_ NO _ rCurrently have at least two drug-free friendships? YES _ NO _ vHave health insurance? YES_ NO _ vGo to the doctor/dentist for problems that need medical attention? YES_NO_ vAvoid hiking or biking alone in deserted areas? YE,S_ NO _ TUse drugs or alcohol in moderation or not at all? YES _ NO _ TNot smoke cigarettes? YES _ NO _ rl-imit caffeine to fewer than 4 cups of coffee per day or 7 colas? YES _ NO _ vHave at least one hour of free time to yourself per day? YES _ NO _ lDo something pleasurable every day (e.g., go for a walk)? YE,S_ NO_ vHave at least three recreational activities that you enjoy (e.g., sports, hobbies- but not substance use!) ? YES_ NO_ vTake vitamins dally? YES_NO_ vHave at least one person in your life that you can truly talk to (therapist, friend, sponsor, spouse)? lUse contraceptives as needed? YES_NO_ lHave at least one social contact every week? YES_NO_ vAttend treatment regularly (e.g., therapy, group, self-help groups)? YES_NO_ vHave at least 10 hours per week of structured time? YES _ NO _ lHave a daily schedule and "to do" list to help you stay organized? YES_NO_ vAffend religious services (if you like them)? YES_ NO_ N/A_ YES NO vOther: YES_NO_ 10 YOUR SCORE: (total # of "no's) Notes on self-care: Self-Care and PTSD. People with PTSD often need to learn to take good care of themselves. For example, if you think about suicide a lot, you may not feel that it's worthwhile to take good care of yourself and may need to make special efforts to do so. If you were abused as a child you got the message that your needs were not important. You may think, "If no one else cares about me, why should I?" Now is the time to start treating yourself with respect and dignity. Self-Care and Substance Abuse. Excessive substance use is one of the most extreme forms of self-neglect because it directly harms your body. And, the more you abuse substances the more you are likely to neglect yourself in other ways too (e.g., poor diet, lack of sleep). Try to do a little more sel.f-care each day. No one is perfect in doing everything on the list at all times. However, the goal is to take care of the most urgent priorities first and to work on improving your self-care through daily efforts. "Progress, not perfection." @ Gu¡ltord Press, New York. From: Najavits, L.M. Seek'ing Safety: A Treatment Manual for PTSD and Substance Abuse (2002). Only for personal use (with clients); for any other use contact <infoseekingsafety.org> or <[email protected]> 11 Najavits, LM (2002) Creati Meanin in PTSD and Substance Abuse MEANINGS THAT DEFINITION HARM Because you have Deprivation Reasoning l'm Crazy Time Warp Actions Speak Louder than Words Beating Yourself Up The Past ís the Present EXAMPLES MEANINGS THAT HEAL Live Well. A happy, functional life will make --I've had a hard time, so suffered a lot, you deserve I'm entitled to get high. substances (or other -If you went through what I up for your suffering far did, you'd cut your srm too. more than will hurting destructive behavior). yourself. Focus on positive steps to make your life better. Honor Your Feelings. --I must be crazy to be You believe that you You are not crazy. Your shouldn't feel the way feeling this upset. you do feelings make sense in -I shouldn't have this light of what you have craving. been through. You can get over them by talking about them and learning to cope. Observe Real Time. --This craving won't stop. It feels like a negative Take a clock and time feeling will go on forever --If I were to cry, I would how long it really lasts. never stop. Negative feelings will usually subside after a while; often they will go away sooner if you distract with activities. Break Through the Show distress by actions, --Scratches on my arml Silence. Put feelings show what I.feel or people won't see the into words. Language is pain. --An overdose will show the most powerful them. communication for people to know you. In your mind, you yell at yourself and put yourself down. --I'm a loser. --I'm a no-good piece of Because you were a victim in the past, you are a victim in the present. --I can't trust anyone. --I'm trapped. dirt. Love-Not Hate-Creates Change. Beating yourself up does not change your behavior. Care and understanding promote real change. Notice Your Power. Stay in the present: I am an adult (no longer a child); I have choices (I am not trapped); I am getting help (I am not alone). 12 The Escape An escape is needed (e.g., --I'll never get over this; I food, cutting) because have to cut mysel.f, feelings are too painful --I can't stand cravings; I have to smoke a joint. Ignoring Cues If you don't notice a problem it will go away. --If I just ignore this You give yourself permission for selfdestructive behavior. --Just one won't hurt. -I'll just buy a bottle of wine for a new recipe Dangerous Permission toothache it will go awoy -I don't abuse substances. The Squeaþ \ilheel If you get better you will Gets the Grease not get as much attention from people --If I do well, my therapist won't notice me. --No one will listen to me unless I'm in distress. It's All My Fault Everything that goes wrong is due to you. --The trauma was my fault -If I have a disagreement with someone, it means I'm wrong. I am My Trauma Your trauma is your identity; it is more important than anything -My lfe else is pain. --I am what I have suffered.. Keep Growing. Emotional growth and learning are the only real escape from pain. You can learn to tolerate feelings and solve problems. Attend to Your Needs. Listen to what you're hearing; notice what you're seeing; believe your gut feeline. Seek Safety. Acknowledge your urges and feelings and then find a safe way to cope with them. Get Attention from Success. People love to pay affention to success. If you don't believe this, try doing better and notice how people respond to vou. Give Yourself a Break Don't carry the world on your shoulders. When you have conflicts with others, try taking a 50-50 approach (50% is their responsibility, 50% is yours). Create a Broad Identity. You are more than what you have suffered. Think of your different roles in life, your varied interests, your goals and hopes. @ Cu¡ltorO Press, New York. From: Najavits, L.M. 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Form version 111171114 (valid through 1131115); after 1131115 please downlo ad 2015 form from our website Store or email us to obtain it. 15 "Tough Cases" -- Rehearsing Difficult Client Scenarios Below are examples of "tough cases" in the treatment of PTSD and substance abuse. They are organized by themes related to this dual diagnosis. Trauma/PTSD. 'l'll never recover from PTSD." "Reading about trauma makes me want to burn myself." "How can I give up substances when I still have such severe PTSD?' x * * Substance Abuse: "Using cocaine makes my PTSD better-l can't give it up." "lt's my alter who drinks and she's not here now" (dissociative identity disordered client) "l definitely think I can do controlled drinking." "Do I have to get clean before working on my PTSD?' "ln AA they said to me, 'You don't drink because you were molested as a child, you drink because you're an alcoholic.' x * * x * Self-Nurturing: "ljust can't experience pleasure-nothing feels fun to me." "All of the people I know drink to have a good time." "Whenever I try to do something pleasurable I feel guilty." 'My partner doesn't want me to go out of the house." * * x * Safety: "l don't want to stay safe; I want to die." "Safe coping skills are a nice idea, but when I get triggered it's so fast that I don't even have time to think about what I'm doing." * "l feel like I need mourn my trauma now, not wait until later." * * Boundaries in Relationships: x "l can't say 'no'. lt makes me feel l'm being mean, like my abuser." x "When I say 'no'to my partner I get hit." * "l want to set a boundary with you- stop telling me to get off substances! I'm not ready." * "You tell me to reach out to others, but I feel safer alone." * 'My cousin keeps offering me crack no matter how much I say not to." Honesty: "But it will hurt the other person if l'm honest." "l can be honest in the role-play, but in real life I could never do it." "l won't tell my doctor that I abuse alcohol." "Should I tell everyone at work that l'm an addict?" "Are you telling me l'm aliar?" "When I was growing up, I told my mother that my brother molested me and she said I was lying." x * * x * x Creating Meaning: * "My thoughts are bad, just like l'm bad." * "But my negative thoughts really are true!" x "Positive thinking never works for me." @ Guiltord Press, New York. From: Najavits, L.M. Seekrng Safety: A Treatment Manual for PTSD and Substance Abuse (2002). Only for personal use (with clients); for any other use contact <infoseekingsafety.org> or <[email protected]> 16 Trauma Svmptom Checklist-40 How often have you experienced each of the following in the last month? Please circle one number, 0 through 3. 1 2. Headaches lnsomnia 4. Stomach n ro b lems Never 0123 0123 0123 6 Feelinn isnlatecl frnm ntherc, 7. "Flashbacks"(sudden, vivid, distractinq memories) 0 0 Often 1 1 23 2 Dizziness 17. Not feelinq satisfied with vour sex life 18. Trouble controllino vour temoer 19. Wakino uo earlv in the mornino 20. Uncontrollable crvinq 21 Fear of men 22. Not feelinq rested in the morninq 0123 0 123 0123 0123 0123 0123 0123 0 1 2 0 123 0123 0123 0 123 0123 0123 0123 24 lrouble oeftino 0 8. Restless sleep I I ow sex clrive 10. Anxietv attacks 1l Sexual overactivitv 12. Loneliness 13. Niohtmares 14. "Soacino out" (ooino awav in vour mind ) l5.Sadness l6 al on ct with others problems 25. Memorv 26 Desire fo nhrrs,inallv hr rrt vnr rrqclf 27. Fear of women 28. Wakinq up in the middle of the niqht 29 Bad thouohts or feelino s duri no SEX 30. Passinq out 31. Feelino that thinos ere "unreal" 32. Unnecessary or over-freouent washin q 0123 0 0123 0123 0123 0123 0123 0 3 3 123 1 23 1 23 0123 0123 0123 37F eelin sof uilt 0 123 38. Feefinq that vou are not alwavs in vour bodv 0 1 2 39" Havino trouble breathino 0123 40. Sexual feelinqs when vou shouldn't have them 0 1 2 34 Feelino tense all the time 35. Beinq confused about vour sexual feelinqs 36. Desire to phvsicallv hurt others ct ct 3 3 lmportant note: this measure assesses trauma-related problems in several categories. According to John Briere, PhD "The TSC-40 is a research instrument only. Use of this scale is limited to professional researchers. lt is not intended as, nor should it be used as, a self-test under any circumstances." For a more current version of the measure, which can be used for clinical purposes (and for which there is a fee), consider the Trauma Symptom lnventory, contact Psychological Assessment Resources, 800-331-8378. The TSC-40 is freely available to researchers. No additional permission is required for use or reproduction of this measure, although the following citation is needed: Briere, J. N., & Runtz, M. G. (1989). The Trauma Symptom Checklist (l-SC-33): Early data on a new scale Journal of lnterpersonal Violence, 4, 151-163. For further information on the measure, go to www.johnbriere.com. 17 PToQOL R-lV PROFESSIONAL QUALITY OF LIFE SCALE Compassion Satisfaction and Fatigue Subscales-Revision lV Helping people puts you in direct contact with their lives. As you probably have experienced, your compassion for those you help has both positive and negative aspects. V/e would like to ask you questions about your experiences, both positive and negative, as a helper. Consider each of the following questions about you and your cwrent situation. Select the number that honestly reflects how frequently you experienced these characteristics in the last 30 davs. O=Never 'l=Rarely 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22 23 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 2=A Few Times 3=Somewhat Often 4=Often 5=Very Often I am happy. I am preoccupied with more than one person I help. I get satisfaction from being able to help people. lfeel connected to others. ljump or am startled by unexpected sounds. feel invigorated after working with those I help. find it difficult to separate my personal life from my life as a helper. I am losing sleep over traumatic experiences of a person I help. I think that I might have been "infected" by the traumatic stress of those I help. I feel trapped by my work as a helper. Because of my helping, I have felt "on edge" about various things. I like my work as a helper. I feel depressed as a result of my work as a helper. I feel as though I am experiencing the trauma of someone I have helped . I have beliefs that sustain me. I am pleased with how I am able to keep up with helping techniques and protocols. I am the person I always wanted to be. My work makes me feel satisfied. Because of my work as a helper, I feel exhausted. I have happy thoughts and feelings about those I help and how I could help them. I feel ovenuhelmed by the amount of work or the size of my casework load I have to deal with. I believe I can make a difference through my work. I avoid certain activities or situations because they remind me of frightening experiences of the people I help. I am proud of what I can do to help. As a result of my helping , I have intrusive, frightening thoughts. I feel "bogged down" by the system. I have thoughts that I am a "success" as a helper. I can't recall important parts of my work with trauma victims. I am a very sensitive person. I am happy that I chose to do this work. I I Copyright lnformation Stamm, 1997-2005. Professional Quality of Life: Compassion Satisfaction and Fatigue Subsca/es, R-lV (ProQOL). http://www.isu.edu/-bhstamm. This test may be freely copied as long as (a) author is credited, (b) no changes are made other than those authorized below, and (c) it is not sold. You may substitute the appropriate target group tor helper if that is not the best term. For example, if you are working with teachers, replace helperwifh teacher. @ B. Hudnall 18 Disclaimer This information is presented for educational purposes only. lt is not a substitute for informed medical advice or training. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified health or mental health care provider. lf you have concerns, contact your health care provider, mental health professional, or your community health center. Self-scoring directions, if used as self-test 1. 2. 3. Be certain you respond to all items. On some items the scores need to be reversed. Next to your response write the reverse of that score (i.e. 0:0, 1:5, 2:4,3=3). Reverse the scores on these 5 items: 1,4,15,17 and 29. Please note that the value 0 is not reversed, as its value is always null. Mark the items for scoring: a. Put an X by the I 0 items that form the Compassion Satisfaction Scale: 3, 6, 12, I 6, 1 8, 20, 22, 24, 27 , 30. b. c. 4. Putacheckbythe l0itemsontheBurnoutScale:7,4,8,10, 15, 17,19,21,26,29. Circle the 10 items on the Trauma/Compassion X'atigue Scale: 2,5,'7,9,17,13,74,23,25,28. Add the numbers you wrote next to the items for each set of items and compare with the average scores below. Compassion Satisfaction Scale. The average score is 37 (SD 7; alpha scale reliability .87). About25Yo of people score higher lhan42 and about 25Yo ofpeople score below 33. Ifyou are in the higher range, you probably derive a good deal of professional satisfaction from your position. If your scores are below 33, you may either find problems with your job, or there may be some other reason-for example, you might derive your satisfaction from activities other than your job. Burnout Scale. The average score on the burnout scale is 22 (SD 6.0; alpha scale reliability .72). About25Yo of people score above 27 and about 25Yo of people score below I 8. Ifyour score is below I 8, this probably reflects positive feelings about your ability to be effective in your work. If you score above 27 you may wish to think about what at work makes you feel like you are not effective in your position. Your score may reflect your mood; perhaps you were having a "bad day" or are in need of some time off. If the high score persists or if it is reflective of other worries, it may be a cause for concern. Trauma/Compassion Fatigue Scale. The average score on this scale is 13 (SD 6; alpha scale reliability .80). About25Yo of people score below I and about 25o/o of people score above 17. If your score is above 17, you may want to take some time to think about what at work may be frightening to you or if there is some other reason for the elevated score. While higher scores do not mean that you do have a problem, they are an indication that you may want to examine how you feel about your work and your work environment. You may wish to discuss this with your supelisor, a colleague, or a health care professional. If you have any concems, you should drscuss them with a health care professional. LEC.5 Listed below are a number of difficult or stressful things that sometimes happen to people. For each event check one or more of the boxes to the right to indicate that: (a) it happened to vou personally; (b) you witnessed it happen to someone else; (c) you learned about it happening to a close family member or close friend; (d) you were exposed to it as Ørt_gÍ_voul_joþ(for example, paramedic, police, military, or other first responder); or (e) you're not sure if it fits. Be sure to consider your entire life (growing up as well as adulthood) as you go through the list of events. 1. Event Naturaldisaster (for example, flood, hurricane, tornado, earthquake) Happened to me Witnessed it Learned about it 2. Fire or explosion 3. Transportation accident (for example, car accident, boat accident, train wreck, plane crash) 4. Serious accident at work, home, or during recreational activity 5. Exposure to toxic substance (for example, dangerous chemicals, radiation) 6. Physical assault (for example, being attacked, hit, slapped, kicked, beaten up) 7. Assault with a weapon (for example, being shot, stabbed, threatened with a knife, gun, bomb) Sexual assault (rape, attempted rape, made to perform any type of sexual act through force or threat of harm) 8. 9. Other unwanted or uncomfortable sexual experience 10. Combat or exposure to a war-zone (in the military or as a civilian) 11. Captivity (for example, being kidnapped, abducted, held hostage, prisoner of war) 12. Life-threatening illness or injury 13. Severe human suffering 14. Sudden violent death (for example, homicide, suicide) 15. Sudden accidental death 16. Serious injury, harm, or death you caused to someone else 17 . Any other very stressful event or experience PLEASE COMPLETE PART 2 ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE Part of mv iob IVof Sure PART 2: A. lf you checked anything fo¡ #17 in PART 1, briefly identify the event you were thinking of: B. lf you have experienced more than one of the events in PART l, think about the event you consider the u¡orsf event, which for this questionnaire means the event that currently bothers you the most. lf you have experienced only one of the events in PART 1, use that one as the worst event. Please answer the following questions about the worst event (check all options that apply): 1. Briefly describe the worst event (for example, what happened, who was involved, etc.). (please estimate il you are not sure) 2. How long ago d¡d ¡t happen? 3. How did you experience it? _ _ _ _ _ lt happened to me directly I witnessed it I learned about it happening to a close family member or close friend I was repeatedly exposed to details about it as part of my job (for example, paramedic, police, military, or other first responder) Other, p/ease describe: 4. Was someone's life in danger? _ Yes, my life _Yeg someone e/se's /ife 5. Was someone seriously injured or killed? -No _ _ Yeg lwas seriously injured Yeg someone e/se was seriously injured or killed it involve sexualviolence? 6. D¡d-No _Yes _No 7. lf the event involved the death of a close family member or close friend, was it due to some kind of accident or violence, or was it due to natural causes? _ _ _ Accident or violence Natural causes Nof applicable (The event did not involve the death of a close family member or close friend) 8. How many times altogether have you experienced a similar event as stressful or nearly as stressful as the worst event? _ _ Just once More than once (please spectfy or estimate the total# of times you have had this experience PLEASE COMPLETE PART 3 ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE ) Part 3: Below is a list of problems that people sometimes have in response to a very stressful experience. Keeping your worst event in mind, please read each problem carefully and then circle one of the numbers to the right to indicate how much you have been bothered by that problem in the past month. at all A little bit Moderately a bit Extremely 0 1 2 3 4 Repeated, disturbing dreams of the stressful experience? 0 1 2 3 4 Suddenly feeling or acting as if the stressful exper¡ence were actually happening aga¡n (as if you were actually backthere reliving it)? 0 , 2 3 4 0 1 2 3 4 Having strong physical react¡ons when something reminded you of the stressfut experience (for example, heart pounding, tro ubl e breath i ng, sweati n g)? 0 1 2 3 4 6. Avoiding memories, thoughts, or feelings related to the stressful experience? 0 I 2 3 4 7. Avoiding external rem¡nders of the stressful exper¡ence for example, people, places, conversations, activities, obiects, or situations)? 0 1 2 3 4 8. Trouble remembering important parts of the stressful experience? 0 1 2 3 4 9. Having strong negative beliefs about yourself, other people, or the world (for example, having thoughts such as: I am bad, there is something seriously wrong with me, no one can be trusted, the world is completely dangerous)? 0 1 2 3 4 10. Blaming yourself or someone else for the stressful experience or what happened after it? 0 1 2 3 4 11. Having strong negative feelings such as fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame? 0 1 2 3 4 12. Loss of interest in activities that you used to enioy? 0 1 2 3 4 13. Feeling distant or cut off from other people? 0 I 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Nof In the past month, how much were you bothered by: 1. Repeated, disturbing, and unwanted memories of the stressful experience? 2. 3. 4. Feeling very upset when something reminded you of the stressful experience? 5. 14. Trouble experiencing positive feelings (for example, being unable to feel happiness or have loving feelings for people close úo you)? Quite 15. lrritable behavior, angry outbursts, or acting aggressively? 0 1 2 3 4 16. Taking too many risks or doing things that could cause you harm? 0 1 2 3 4 0 1 2 3 4 0 1 2 3 4 9. Having difficulty concentrating? 0 I 2 3 4 20. Trouble falling or staying asleep? 0 1 2 3 4 17. Being "superalert" or watchful or on guard? 18. Feeling jumpy or easily startled? I LEC-5 (10/1 112013) Weathers, Blake, Schnurr, Kaloupek, Max, & Keane -- National Center for PTSD PCL-ï (101312013) Weathers, Litz, Keane, Palmieri, Max, & Schnurr For scoring instructions, please go - National Center for PTS to www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessmenUadult-sr/ptsd-checklist.asp From: Najavits, LM (2002). Seeking Safety: A Treatment Manual for PTSD and Substance Abuse. New York: Guilford IÀIÍEBPERSONAL Asking for Help aru SUlvll'lARY Each of the disorders-PTsD and substance abuse-leads to problems in asking for help' Today's topic encourages patients to become aware of their need for help, and provides guidance in how to do so effectivelY. ORIENTATION "lt føels Hke the tetnph,one wøiglw ø thotnanå' pounds-" "l lose whether I get hetp or not. If I get halp, I feel guàItg; lf I dont, I feel lnnn¡løt¿d and alnnß." 'Hor¡) haril ís ìt to a.sk for tntp? I tlxínk ít's easíer to gìnse up cocaårw -Eoeryone in my W lrns lurt me onÊ u)ag or anothnr. rnt easy-l cø¡ít tøke anV fiwre lutrt." than to øskfor hul\.- I guess ITI lmne to tr! to tnnt. lt's "The power of both PTSD and substance abuse, others'help is essential. It has been said, drugs equals the need for help. . . . They are as closely related as supply and demand in economics, as inseparable as pressure and volume in behavior of gasses. . . . The gun is poínted at my head: g"i h"lp or die" (DuWors, 1992, pp. 97-99). Similarly, for severe PTSD it has been said that healing can take place only in the context of relationships (Herman, 1992). There are good reasons why patients may find it hard to reach out for help. They may have had no one to trust while growing up; they may feel a need to keep up an image as someone "strong"; th"y may have learned that ashng for help evokes punishment. For many patients with PTSD sufficient help was not available at the time of the trauma, and they may Fìor 164 Asking for Help 1ó5 feel unable to seek help now when it is more available to them. Substance use may have come to seem like the only "help" they could get. Some patients may have sought help from systems that faited them, such as treatment systems ignorant about PISD or substance abuse, or legal systems that may have punished them rather than providing treatrnent. Fbr a descripdon of one patient's dilemmas in asking for help, see 'A Patient's Story: Why lt's Hard to Ask for Help' at the end of this toPic. Today's topic provides explicit instruction in how to reach out more often, and more effectively, toward others. Thís skill can literally save lives in times of need. Because there are many people in patients' lives who truly cannot or will not provide help, a key theme is learning to move on to others who can, even if only to treaters. See also the topic Setting Bunã' aríøs in Relat¡onships for more on getting patients to say "yes" to help from others. coun tertronsference Issues if they grew up in a supportive environment, underestimate patients' obstacles in seeking help. They may believe that the problem is mostly in patients'pereeptions rather than in reality, and they may be unawÍue of some real dangers in reaching out for help. See "suggestions" þelow) for more on this issue. Some therapists, particularly SESSION FORT{AT l. Clwck-ön þry tn 5 tninutps per pøtimt). See Chapter 2. 2. Quotøtíon (briefl¡¡). See page I70. Link the quotation to the 5sssi6¡-fsr example, "Today we'll focus on asking for help. That may feel like a big risk for some people-but it is incredibly important to learn to take that risk and reach out." 3. Reløte tt e topiô to pøtíents' líoes (ìn-d,epth, most of session). a. Asft pøtients ø look tbm'gh tlæ handou'ts: Handout l: Asking for Help Handout 2: Approach Sheet patìents rel.ate the skill to ctnrent and specífic problents "session Content" (b"lo*) and Chapter 2 for suggestions. 4. Check-out (brteÍlù.See Chapter 2. b. Hetp SESSION CONTENT Gools s Discuss effective ways to ask for help. o Rehearse how to ask for help. o Explore patients' experiences in asking for help. in tlwir lio¿s. See Treatment Topics 1óó Wogs to Relote the /"foteriol to futients'Lives * role-play are current, real-lifu situations that patients raise. Also, patients can choose upcoming events that provide an opportunity to reach out for help. If a patient has had any unsafe behavior since the last session (substance use, starting a physical ffght, self-cutting, unprotected sex, suicide attempt), it is strongly recommended that this be the top priority in rehearsing the skill. For example, you might say, "Role-play the last time you used a substance. Whom could you have called? What could you have said?" Other role-play ideas include "Tell your therapist you dont feel safe," "Call a friend when you are feeling lonely," 'Ask someone to go with you to a self-help meeting," 'i{sk your partner to help you review the material in this treatment," or "Call someone if you feel like hurting yourself or someone else." * Work on tlw Ayproæh Shee, (Hffidaut 2). Help patients identiS a current situation that would benefft from asking for help, and process how to go about it. The goal is to get pa*in their heads" and into ffnding out "what's real." Thus, guide tients out of the assumptions them to fill out the ffrst three boxes of Handout 2, the blank Approach Sheet (what help they need help, whom they can ask, and what they predict will happen). Then, before the next session, they can try actually asking for the help specifted and observe whether their prediction was accurate (filling out the fourth box in the sheet). To help create å success experience, make sure that patients are truly tn ing something new and not just going through the motions; try to set up a situation with the most likelihood of success (e.g., asking someone r&)t explicitly discuss how to prepare if a request for help doesn't go well; explore practical and emotional obstacles to following through on the assignment; and, when patients come to the next session, process what happened. If it didnt go well, the idea is to help patients learn somethíng constructive from the experience (e.g,, "I'm able to take a risk," or "Now I know I need to find other people to ask help from'). Also, ffnd out hou they asked for help, and give honest feedback and instructions on more effective Rol,e pla¡s, The best situations to ways. * Discussåon o "What do you most want help with?" ¡ "Why is asking for help such a crucial coping skill?" o "\{'as there a time recently when you needed to call someone for help, but didnt?" o "Is it harder to ask for help with your PTSD, your substance abuse, or both equaþ?" . 'Why might PTSD and substance abuse make it hard for you to ask for heþ?" r "'What happens when you do not ask for help?" o 'hre there any successes you ve had in asking for help? What made those possible?" I "Do you think you can learn to ask for more help?" o "Ho\M can you cope if the other person refuses to help?" o "Ifyou feel an impulse toward a destructive behavior, do you lcnow whom you would call and what you would saY?" o "Why would asking for help make you more índ,øpender¿f in the long run?" o "Can you 'coach' the other person in advance on what you want him or her to say?" Asking for Help 167 Suggestíons You mag uønt to íntrod,uce the topìc udth a úmpln, forcffi úøtement: *I ¿m going to tell you one of the greatest secrets of recovery you will ever hear. This is like a law of physics and as solid as the ground we walk on¡ You need help from others to recover." Allow patÍents + to respond to this, and praise any positive examples they provide of asking for help. + Out-loud reh¿arsal ís tgp¡uøUy nwst effectir¡¿. Having patients rehearse how they would ask for help tends to be more engaging than a general discussion. Thus role plays and the Approach Sheet generally work best. I Note that sutw pøtöents hanse no one søfe to øsk heþ from. This is a very real situation for some people. In this case, the goal becomes practicing ashng help from treaters (u.9., a hotline, an AA member or sponsorr a therapÍst). It is usually less helpful to 'lebate" with patients whether particular füends or family members really would be there for them-patients' instincts may be accurate, arrd the goal of the session is to have them locate help anywhere they can. Tieaters are an excellent source for mastering the skill of asking for help, and over time, patients may then be able to move on to developing a safe support network of nontreaters. Patients can be encouraged even now to get involved in activities that will help them to build a support network (e.g., self-help groups, leisure activities, religious organizations). However, some patients are not yet capable of utilizing these, in which case treaters become the "fall-back" option. You may also want to offer patients resources from Handout I in the topic Conmr"míty Resources, which provides many toll-free numbers for obtaining informational help. Here too, just practicing reaching out is the goal. * Be sure to tøke oery seråouslg that thcre nwg be oølíd reøsons uhy askíngfor læþ h gerwínelg dnngerous for sanle patöents at thÅs poônt. Sometimes patients have abusive partners who will hurt them if they seek help; at other times, emotional obstacles may be dangerous (e.g., "If I dodt get the help I ask fon I become suicidal"), or treaters/treatment systems are unhelpful. The most important strategy is usually to empathize with patients' fears and to redirect them to safe options. For example, a patient can plan on asking for help just before or during a therapy session (such as making a call in the therapist's offìce) to be able to process how it went. It is not helpful, in contrast, to respond with simplistic *cheerleading" such as 'Just keep trying with your partneç" or "You can do it!" i Encowage pøtôents to íwtruct people ín t\wír lùoes øbout tlra kínd of fub üreg nøed. For example, one concern patients raise is that if they ask for help before using a substance, the other person will try to talk them out of it. Try to have patients rehearse explicitly in advance what they want the other person to say-for example, "f cannot stpp you from using, but I am wonied about you," or "I will just listen to anytùing you want to say." See the topic Getting Others to Support Your Recooery for more on this. + It mag be søþst to start øåth conerete, phgsôcøl heþ røtller thøn emntùonal heþ, For example, asking a füend for a ride to a self-help meeting may be easier than asking for advice on a complex emotional problem. The goal is to take a step, however small, toward reaching out to others in a time of need. Adjusting the level of difftculty of the task (not too hard, not too easy) is key. AIso, patients should select someone who truly has the potential to help, not a Treatment Topics 1ó8 "hopeless case," such as a family member who has abused them or a füend who has refused to help in the past. + AnV tfune åsbetter tløntw tí,me, Sometimes patients believe that they can only ask for help before usíng (or other such events) and once they've begun a self-destructive act it is too late to reach out. Process ways to ask for help at any point in the sequence, as in this example: Beþre:'Call someone when you have a drug craving, before you use." During: "If you re at a bar, go to the pay phone and call your sponsor." *Call After: a friend the next day to discuss what happened"' + Iilcntìf,y u)ags to cope uåth røjectíanbefore ít lwpperæ. Rehearse how patients might handle it if a person refuses a request for help. Cognitive strategies may be especially helpful, such as explanations that are not self-blaming: "I guess the person I asked just isrit as generous as I had thought," "I can learn from this and try againlater with someone else," "I need to give myself credit for trying, even if it didrt't work out as I had hoped." * Persåstente ma,tters. Patients should not give up easily. Offer suggestions, such es "You rnay have to ask twice for someone to 'hear'you," or "If one person can t help you, try ånother person immediately." * Patíents mag be ofroid of becomíng too dependent íf th,eg æk for lwþ. lt is often a surprise that in fact it makes them more indcpendcnt in the long run. Learning to r€cognize and priorÍtize one's needs, knowing how to put a request for help into words, tolerating the vulnerability of such a request-all of these empower patients and increase strength and self-esteem. Asking for help meåns that one is not afraid of people and can join with others safely. * Notíce lwu pøtúents askfor lr*lp, p*töcularly ún tlw rolc plags. You may need to give honest feedbacl< and instructions on more effective ways to ask for help. For example, one patient said, "I told my partner that she was totally unhelpful and that she had to start helping me from now on." This person needed guidance in softening the approach. + Sonæ pøtåents møg røtund¿rstandthe quotatioæ. You may want to emphasize that it suggests the importance of taking risks in life. Not taking risks, though it may feel "self-protective," can keep one alone and isolated. Reaching out for help is an important risk to take. Tough Coses t "I'm always helping others, but no one helps me." * "I can ask for help in role plays, but not in real life." * "I dorft have anyone in my life to ask heþ from." x "\ühenever I ask for help, I get rejeeted." x "I cart't ask for help when I feel like using-I dont want to be talked out of it." "f'm calling you from â pay phone and I need help right now; I'm going to kill myself." *My family does not want me to get help from anyone except them." "When I was growing up, I \ryas beaten if I asked for help." *' 'fu a Latino in this society, I can only ask for heþ from other Latinos." * * * Asking for Help A 169 PATIENT'S STORY: WHY lT'S HARD TO ASK FOR HEIP "My trøurna started arund,thø timø I usas about 5 or so. Aluøgs arumil nighttimn, when tlw li.ghts went ufi, ùt was a scary time. Bad, things happerwd ìn th¿ dnrk. I uutld pretend to bø aslcep but that d¡dn't matter If I clnsed mV eyes> ít woul.d go aua7. But tha.t wasn't truø I wouldhold, onto my ilollfor cornfort. Sonwtim,es I uouli.lnld, on so tígþt I thought her læad, wutld, pop off, "So why didn't I askforlnle? lf onlg I wentforlnlp,I curld,hone stoppedthe wholn thíng. But I díùít, I did nothing; I l.et ¿t all happen, Was I sryid,? Or magbe I kked it? Please gíoe me tlw answers-,l iloríthaoe thøm. I feel dírtA, ølways feelìng dùty. Grouíng up, ani, et)en now when I think øbout ít, it was always my fault, I didn't stop any of ít. Eoøn øfter the ra.pø at 77 gews old, I stíll didn't tøll angorc. Eoen os an øilult, I lßt it go on in mg mørríage. An adult! I sfuuld, hane stopped it then. But I didn't. I'm just a lluln glrl cryíngfor hølp but rct dní,ng angthíng about åt. *Well, Aes, mV trun¡tn ilidlwppen os alinln girl That's jwt it---a little grl This rnøn tuo.s Dery powedul. There u)ut no waE I could, stop this perstn wlw was terifgðngmn. No, I arn rwt strryid,, and I did, rct enjog it. It sinkøns m,e when I tlrínk about ít. I couldlít go for heþ becmse tlwn mg sísters uould. haoe been furt. I was heþless. He was my føtlwr a oery powedul frgurt in my lì,fr. I rnay rwt haoe gotten hølp th,en, but l'm gettångfuþ mw, It's rwtser too løte to askfor lwlp. I wiII gøt rn7 W in orilpr and stand, tn rn7 own two feet. If I talked then, bad, thíngs watld haoe høppened. WeIl, rc more, I u)¡ll not be hurt any more ín mg ffi." Quotation 'And the trouble is, ¡f you don't risk anything, you risk even more." -Erica Jong (20th-century American writer) From Seekr'ing Safety by Lisa M. Najavirs (2002). 170 HANDOUT 1 Asking for Help Asking for nelp MAIN POINTS * tt is very common to have difficulty askíng for help if you have * You must get help from others to recover. No one can do it alone. PTSD and substance abuse, rt ln learning to ask for help, start "small": Practice on safe people, with simple requests. * Try to ask for help before a problem becomes overwhelming. But you can call any tlme-before, during, or after a hard time. * Prepare how you'll handle * ln asking for help, you don't have to "spill" everything. * Asking for help makes you stronger and more independent in the rong run. * Learning to ask for help may feel very awkward at first. * lf there is no one in your life to ask help from, work on building a support network. * When asking for help, be gentle-no demands, threats, or insults. * Discover whether your fears âre accurate: compare your prediction * Carry in your wallet a list it if the person refuses your request for of phone numbers you can 171 to reality. call. Safefy by Lisa M. Najavits (2002). Copyright by The Guilford Press. Permission llol oook feetlne tor personal use only (see copyright page for details). herp. to photocopy this lorm is granted to purchasers of this Asking for Help Ideas for a Commitment Commit to one action that will move your life forward! can be anything you feel will help yo.r, or you can try one of the ideas below. Keeping your commitment is a way of respecting, honoring, and caring for yourself. It f Option 1:Write a list of people you can call when you are having problems (e.9., wanting to talk, feeling afraid, drug cravings, needing a ride, etc.). lnclude friends, family members, self-help sponsors, treaters, hotlines, dropin centers, and anyone else you can think of (see example below). List of people to call for help 1. My friend Martha: 46æ215 or 252-7655 * 2, My therapist (Dr. Klein): 855-1111 or can page at 855-1000 3. My AA sponsor (Barbara): 731-1502 Option 2: Go for it! Fill out the Approach Sheet. APPROACH SHEET-EXATqPLE Fill in the first three parts now Later, after you've approached the person, fill in the last part. (1) Who will you talk to? My friend ElizabeEh. (2) What will you say? "Please help me noL drink at the party t.onight-you can help by not offering me any alcohoJ" and checking in with me at times during the party to see íf I,m okay.,, (3) What do you predict will happen? She won't want to help me. She'll think I'm paÈhetic. (a) What did happen in reality? T called Elizabeth She was very willing to watch out for me at the party, and also gave me the phone number for a good eA group in to!ìrn. She dÍdn't convey any judgrment or negative views of me. From Seekrng Safetyby Lisa M. Najavits (2002). Copyright by The Guilford Press. Permission to photocopy this form book for personal use only (see copyright page for details). 173 is granted to purchasers of this Asldng for Help HANDOUT 2 Approach Sheet * Fill in the first three parts now. Later, after you've approached the person, fill in the last part. (1) Who will you talk to? (2) What will you say? (3) What do you prejiç! will happen? (a) What did happen in reality? * You may want to ask yourse/f; o What did you learn from trying this? Did you get what you wanted, or at least part of what you wanted? ls there anything you might do differently next time? o How do you feel about your experience? o How difficult was iti r t From Seekrng Sa/ety by Lisa M. Najavis (2002). Copyright by The Guílford book for personal use only (see copyright page for details). Press. PermÍssion 't72 to photocopy this lorm is granted to purchasers of this rUU07 Seekins Safetv Scale-Brief Version Part l: Interventions For each of these questions, please rate your feelings of how well Seekins Safety was facilitated using the following scale: -Not Done l-DoneaLittle 2-DoneaLot 3 - Done Thoroughly 0 The facilitator(s): l. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. did a check-in at the start of the session and worked to keep it brief (up to 5 minutes per person). had a client read the quote; and asked "What is the main point of the quote?". gave handouts and made use of them during the session. did a check-out at the end of the session and worked to keep this brief (up to 2 minutes per person). focused on how the topic related to trauma/PTSD. focused on how the topic related to substance use. focused the discussion on safe coping skills. kept discussions focused on the session topic and practicing or rehearsing skills. tried to keep everyone safe by making sure that no graphic details of substance use or trauma were discussed. Part2:. Processes Please rate how helpful the session was, using the following scale: 0 * Harmful I - Ineffective (Not too helpful) 2 3 The 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. - Somewhat helpful - Extremely helpful facilitator(s): was supportive and gave positive feedback while also helping clients take responsibility for their recovery. was genuinely warm, caring, and compassionate. was helpful in managing crisis and strong emotions in a professional and kind way. really listened to what clients had to say and were involved and interested in the discussions. worked to create a bond between the group members (if group modality). engaged clients in the work (rather than facilitator talking too much, lecturing, or over-controlling) overall, did a good job helping clients work on safe recovery from trauma and/or substance use. How group members interacted with each other (d group modølity): 1. 2. 3. The group members were genuinely warm, caring, and compassionate with each other. The group members really listened to what each other had to say and were involved and interested in the discussions. The group members worked to create a bond among each other. Najavits, L.M., Liese, 8.S., and Heath, N. (2007). Adapted version of the Seeking Safety Adherence Scale, based on the original version: Najavits, L.M, & Liese, B.S. (1996). Seeking Safety Adherence Scale. Unpublished scale. Mclean Hospital / Harvard Medical School. For permission to adapt or distribute, please contact L. Najavits at [email protected] or 617 -731-1501 . @ Seekinq Safetv Session Format Worksheet As you listen, please check off whether the clinician did the following, which serves as a quick checklist key format elements of a Seeking Safety session. For a group session, check as complete only if done of the for each client. Use left margin to keep track of each client This worksheet is not meant to be overly detailed. Rather, it reinforces the key parts of the session that help to build a sense of safety and consistency. The format mirrors the process of recovery from trauma and substance abuse: balanced and safe, good use of time, clear boundaries, and attention to each client's current issues. I ) Check-ln. Note: the clinician does not ask each of these questions. lnstead, s/he can guide the client to look at pg. 55 from manual (posted on the wall or in hand). Soon clients go through the questions on their own readily. Throughout, the clinician just redirects if needed and asks any missed questions. D "How are you feeling?" a "What good coping have you done?" [does not have to relate to prior question] Did the clinician guide clients to use the Safe Coping List if they can't name anything? tr "Any substance use or other unsafe behavior?" lf yes, did the clinician ask about amount and type? (e.9., number of drinks) "Did you complete your commitment?" Did the clinician remember what the client's commitment was? Did the clinician express concern if the client forgot the commitment, and discuss how the client can keep track of the commitment? tr "Community resource update" Did the clinician remember what the client's community resource was? Also, did the clinician: Contain the check-in to no more than five minutes per client? (e.9., redirecting in kind way) Mostly listen to client, and speak little (e.9., short statements of concern or praise; no major interventions, no problem-solving)? For group:have each client answer all five questions before going on to the next client? For group: preserve each client's check-in "space" and prevent others from talking during it? For group:ask for a volunteer to start the check-in? 1l Quotation. Did the clinician: Ask the client to read the quote? (if group, ask for a volunteer) u Ask "What is the main point of the quote?" o Limit discussion of the quote to no more than about 2 minutes? u Tell clients what the quote means, if they don't understand n Avoid making the quote into a school-like exercise (e.9., "Let's break down each part...") l) Hand-Outs. Did the clinician: Er Give clients the handouts? tr Give clients a few minutes to look over the handouts? o Ask "What strikes you?" or "Anything you'd like to start in on?" [i.e., start with clients' reactions] tr Periodically connect the discussion to the handouts? 4) Check-out. Did the clinician: tr Guide clients to look at the ldeas for a Commitment at the end of the handouts? o Ask "Name one thing you got out of today's session?" Allow client to name anything (does not have to relate to the topic covered) Support, but do not judge/correct client (e.9., "l think you got something else out of it") "Any problems with the session?" u Ask r o o o o o tr o tr n tr r o o o n n Ask "What is your new commitment?" Suggest ideas if they can't think of commitment Encourage client to choose any helpful commitment (does not have to be from manual) Make sure each commitment is concrete enough to actually do it Make sure client is writing it down/clinician is writing it down Contain check-in to no more than about 2-3 minutes per client? Avoid bringing up new interventions during check-out? o o o o Special circumstances? Note below any compelling reasons why the clinician may not have followed the format. For example, if a group has 15 people, the check-in may be limited to just a few people answering each question, with different people on each question. General notes. Note below any general notes you would like to discuss with the clinician. This may include, for example, themes or areas of growth across the clinician's work, and ideas for additional reading or further training. Treatment lnnovations, 2003 / updated 2015. Seeking Safety session format worksheet. Unpublished measure. Newton Centre, MA @ Lisa Najavits / Downloaded from www.treatment-innovations.org, section Training / Materials.
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