Can a simple writing therapy help veterans battle both PTSD and addiction?
NCT ID NCT05536908
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study looked at whether adding a brief writing therapy called Written Exposure Therapy (WET) to a standard 28-day residential addiction program helps veterans with both PTSD and substance use disorders. Fifty-six veterans were randomly assigned to either standard care alone or standard care plus five individual WET sessions. Researchers measured satisfaction, PTSD symptoms, substance use, and quality of life up to three months after treatment to see if the added therapy was feasible and helpful.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Written Exposure Therapy (a brief, structured writing therapy for PTSD)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a short, practical way to treat PTSD alongside addiction treatment, improving symptoms and quality of life for veterans.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early feasibility study with only 56 participants. The results may not apply to all veterans, and the therapy may not reduce substance use or PTSD symptoms more than standard care alone.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Salem VA Medical Center, Salem, VA
Salem, Virginia, 24153-6404, United States