An Exploratory Study of the Benefits of a Mindfulness Skills Group for Student Veterans

Abstract

Military personnel are increasingly transitioning out of the military. Veterans bring varied strengths and experiences to their academic journey as they enter colleges and universities. Many campuses are responding to the unique needs of these veterans by offering academic, emotional, and personal support to assist them in their quest for a university degree. This article describes an exploratory qualitative study of the benefits of a mindfulness skills group program designed to assist student veterans in coping with stressors related to their transition from warrior to student on a large campus that has a robust veteran-friendly initiative. This program was offered in a group format over three semesters and served 14 students. Qualitative data on perceived benefits of the program were collected from nine of these students using prepost questionnaires and feedback from a post-intervention focus group. Data analysis indicated several themes related to perceived benefits of participating in the mindfulness skills groups. Findings suggested students attributed improved emotional and physical coping, positive changes in personal functioning, improved organizational capabilities, and improved stress management skills to participation in the mindfulness skills group. Lessons learned from implementing this program are offered.

Student service members/veterans on campus: Challenges for reintegration.

“…Approximately 84% of campuses provide assistance for PTSD, 55% provide assistance with physical disabilities, and 35% assist with brain injuries (McBain et al, 2012). Some programs have also implemented SSM/V-specific counseling groups to help with the transition to the academic setting (Selber, Chavkin, & Biggs, 2015) or with stress and sleep difficulties (Wisner et al, 2015). However, only 7% of SSM/Vs who obtained mental health treatment in the last year received treatment at campus counseling or health centers (Boynton Health Service, 2012).…”

Mindfulness Based Programs Implemented with At-Risk Adolescents

“…Mindfulness training and practice has a broad scope of documented benefits that continue to expand as evidenced by recent studies. College students returning from active military service have credited mindfulness training to better emotional and physical coping, positive changes in personal functioning, increased organizational skills, and better stress management skills [ 13 ]. Mindfulness techniques and training can be used to successfully weaken the thought associations and cravings with substance use disorders [ 14 ].…”

A Case Study of Meditation to Reduce Alcohol Use Disorder Symptomology in Veteran PTSD Comorbidity

“…Psychoeducation has remained one of the most effective tools when treating individuals who have a mental illness (17). Meditation skills have been adapted into treatment programmes and have been shown to be beneficial in controlling urges for coping with substance misuse (18)(19)(20).…”