Body-oriented psychotherapy in working with dissociative disorders in military personnel

Background. Body-oriented psychotherapy is a relatively new approach that remains little known among the general public and is often perceived with prejudice. At the same time, it is a modern, evidence-based and effective method of psychotherapeutic support that allows for effective resolution of various client needs. The basic principle of this method is based on the idea of the functional unity of the body and mind, where the body is viewed not as a mechanism that serves the brain and consciousness, but as an active participant and space for the manifestation of mental processes. Due to the growing number of servicemen and women who suffer from mental trauma due to the war in Ukraine, body-oriented psychotherapy can play an important role in dealing with dissociative disorders. It is important to study its effectiveness and peculiarities of application in the military environment. The development of body-oriented methods has been scientifically substantiated in recent decades, and a number of studies have confirmed their effectiveness in reducing anxiety, depression, and dissociative disorders. However, in the context of working with military personnel, this approach has not yet been sufficiently covered. Рurpose – of the study is to investigate the mechanism of body-oriented psychotherapy in overcoming dissociative disorders of military personnel, as well as to assess its impact on improving the mental state of this category of clients. Materials and methods. The study involved 200 servicemen who were assessed using the PCL-M questionnaires and the PTSD Self-Assessment Scale. As a result, stress reactions were detected in 143 people (71.5%), of whom 85 (42.5%) had dissociative disorders. Results and discussion. The study indicates effectiveness of the use of body-oriented therapy, which is manifested in a decrease in the frequency and intensity of dissociative disorders among military personnel. Conclusions. The article discusses the principles of body-oriented Psychotherapy, the specifics of its application in dissociative disorders and methods of interaction with patients with military experience. Practical recommendations are given for psychologists and psychotherapists working with military personnel. Body-oriented psychotherapy is a promising area for the rehabilitation of military personnel with dissociative disorders. This method promotes the integration of mental and physical aspects of the personality, reduces stress and improves adaptive capabilities.