Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
The goal of this single-site, single-arm pilot study is to examine the impact of breathwork training for posttraumatic stress symptoms in an adult veteran population. Participants will complete a single, in-person breathwork session (2 hours) led by a certified breathwork facilitator and engage in an integration session (30 minute) with a licensed psychologist. Participants will be invited to engage in two, optional, virtual follow up breathwork sessions (40 minute practice each) during weeks 2 and 3 following the in-person breathwork session.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * (1) having received a professional diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) * (2) being able not to commit to another (new) treatment during the course of the study * (3) understanding English instructions fluently * (4) being 18 and above. Exclusion Criteria: * (1) having been exposed to breathwork any time in the past * (2) being unable to perform most basic tasks due to PTSD or other mental illness. * (3) Asthma, breathing problems, or a respiratory disorder (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). * (4) Uncontrolled hypertension (i.e., systolic blood pressure/diastolic blood pressure \> 150/95), orthostatic hypotension (e.g., issues with fainting), or cardiovascular or peripheral arterial disease. * (5) Current or past diagnosis of a neurological disease (e.g., Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, vasovagal syncope) * (6) Serious psychiatric disorder requiring hospitalization within the past 12 months * (7) Current substance use disorder