CANISTERAPY IN WORKING WITH COMBAT VETERANS WITH PTSD

Abstract

Introduction. The article addresses the problem of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among military personnel and veterans, as well as the search for effective approaches to their social and psychological rehabilitation. Contemporary views on the clinical manifestations, risk factors and comorbid conditions of PTSD are summarized, and distinctions between PTSD and acute stress disorder are outlined. Particular attention is paid to diagnostic issues, including the use of validated instruments such as PC-PTSD-5, CAPS- 5, PCL-5 and the C-SSRS to assess symptom severity and suicide risk. The long-term consequences of traumatic experiences are shown to significantly affect the quality of life, social and occupational functioning of veterans and their families, while reintegration difficulties may persist for decades after the end of combat. Based on an analysis of international experience from the United States, Israel and Germany, the article substantiates the feasibility of implementing innovative adjunctive interventions, in particular canine-assisted therapy and other forms of human– animal interaction as supportive means in PTSD treatment. Their potential in reducing symptom severity, decreasing social isolation, enhancing motivation for treatment, and overcoming the stigma associated with psychological care in military settings is highlighted. The importance of developing a systemic culture of mental health care for service members, programs of reintegration, and support for families and children affected by war is emphasized. The results of this study can be used in designing comprehensive rehabilitation programs for military personnel with PTSD, improving clinical diagnostic protocols and psychotherapeutic care, as well as in the implementation of animal-assisted interventions within the practice of social and psychological support for veterans.