Resolution of Dissociated Ego States Relieves Flashback-Related Symptoms in Combat-Related PTSD: A Brief Mindfulness Based Intervention.
Military psychology : the official journal of the Division of Military Psychology, American Psychological Association January 1, 2020 Genine P. Smith, Glenn Hartelius 5 citations
A novel therapeutic approach conceptualizes PTSD-related flashback triggers as the activation of latent dissociative structures called dissociated ego states (DES), which are fractured aspects of self beyond cognitive control. Using mindful attention, therapists can engage these states without emotional dysregulation, recovering dissociated cognitive resources and deactivating the structure, without requiring exposure to traumatic memories. A 9-step intervention is described with a case example of a Vietnam veteran who had PTSD symptoms for 49 years; significant gains were maintained at 21 months follow-up. This mindfulness-based approach targeting dissociated ego states may offer rapid, durable relief from chronic PTSD symptoms and potentially reduce treatment costs.