Making Meaning of Combat-Related PTSD Nightmares

Abstract

This qualitative study investigated how combat veterans diagnosed with combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were able to make meaning of their combat-related PTSD nightmares. There is a disconnect within the mental health field regarding understanding the messages and meanings of these nightmares and how they might serve the veteran in treatment. Current popular treatment methods used for veterans with combat-related PTSD are lacking, not only in their efficacy but also in their ability to help veterans finding meaning in their nightmares. The study enrolled four combat veterans diagnosed with combat-related PTSD who also reported having combat-related PTSD nightmares and had some sort of previous mental health treatment associated with their diagnosis. Using a narrative research approach, the data analysis revealed that the participants’ combat-related PTSD nightmare(s) had long-lasting negative effects in their lives, especially after returning home, and affected their families as well. Participants were consumed with finding and making meaning in their life after serving in the military, despite the lack of support from the military in transitioning back to civilian life and despite the lack of effective treatments for their PTSD. This study aimed to deepen the understanding of how nightmares have affected the lives of veterans or active military service members to assist clinicians who want to successfully provide mental health treatment for veterans or active military diagnosed with combat-related PTSD.