tDCS for Military Patients: Acceptability and Challenges

Author Names

Fenne M. Smits, Guido J. de Kort and Elbert Geuze

Published Date: February 2021

Journal Name: BMC Psychiatry

Abstract

This mixed-methods study examines the acceptability of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as a treatment for stress-related mental health disorders in military patients and their caregivers. The research involved quantitative data on dropout rates and adverse effects and qualitative insights from interviews. The study found that tDCS is generally acceptable with minimal adverse effects, though the need for improved understanding and reduced logistical barriers was highlighted.

Key Concepts

• Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS): A non-invasive technique that applies a low-intensity electrical current to the scalp to modulate brain activity, potentially aiding in the treatment of stress-related disorders.

• Stress-Related Disorders: Includes conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and impulsive aggression, prevalent in military populations.

• Mixed-Methods Approach: Combines quantitative and qualitative research methods for a comprehensive analysis.

Procedure Highlights - Research Methodology

1. Study Design: A mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews.

2. Participants: 102 military patients with PTSD, anxiety, or impulsive aggression, and their caregivers.

3. tDCS Intervention: Five tDCS sessions over two weeks, targeting the right inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) and left orbital area. Some participants received active tDCS, others sham treatment.

4. Data Collection: Quantitative data included dropout rates and adverse effects; qualitative data was gathered through interviews focusing on the acceptability of tDCS using the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA).

Results - Findings of the Research

• Treatment Adherence: Low dropout rates (4% in the active tDCS group) indicate high adherence.

• Adverse Effects: Minimal, with mild burning or itching sensations being the most common, especially in the active group.

• Emotional State: No significant mood changes during tDCS sessions.

• Qualitative Insights: Positive attitudes toward tDCS as a complementary treatment to psychotherapy, but a need for better education on tDCS and reducing travel burdens were identified.

Discussion and Conclusion of the Research

The study concludes that tDCS is an acceptable treatment for stress-related disorders in military patients. However, its broader adoption depends on better education for patients and caregivers and reducing logistical challenges, such as the burden of travel for treatment. Home-based tDCS could be a viable solution to these challenges, offering more accessibility for military patients.

Link to the Original Paper

Acceptability of tDCS in treating stress-related mental health disorders: a mixed methods study among military patients and caregivers

Author Information

• Fenne M. Smits: Brain Research & Innovation Centre, Ministry of Defence, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands

• Guido J. de Kort: Brain Research & Innovation Centre, Ministry of Defence, Utrecht, The Netherlands

• Elbert Geuze: Brain Research & Innovation Centre, Ministry of Defence, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands

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The content provided here is an interpretation of a research paper for educational purposes. It is simplified to make the findings accessible to a general audience. For detailed information, please refer to the original research paper.