Introducing the PTSD Bytes Podcast

Now you can hear about our mobile app and technology resources directly from our experts.

PTSD Bytes is a 10-minute podcast filled with “bite sized” pieces of practical information you can use or share. Each episode includes an expert who talks about how technology can support people with PTSD or other mental health concerns.

In the first episode of PTSD Bytes, Dr. Jason Owen, clinical psychologist at the VA National Center for PTSD, describes the VA mobile mental health apps that his team developed.

Mobile Mental Health Apps

In addition to providing world-class mental health care, VA also offers many mobile mental health apps. The apps are free and publicly available in the iOS App Store or Google Play. Each app includes in-the-moment coping tools, connections to crisis and other resources, ways to keep track of how you’re doing, and information to learn more.

No diagnosis needed

These apps were created to address symptoms of PTSD or related concerns. However, you do not need to have a diagnosis of PTSD to use them. Dr. Owen highlights that the apps do not require any mental health diagnosis at all. For example, PTSD Coach can be used by anyone who has experienced a traumatic event. Dr. Owen also talks about how the app Mindfulness Coach can be helpful for people, like himself, who may be skeptical about mindfulness.

You don’t have to be a Veteran

VA mobile mental health apps were designed with Veterans in mind, first and foremost. However, anyone can use these apps – family members, health care professionals, and members of the general public. These apps do not collect or share any personal information, and they are backed by scientific evidence and expertise.

Importantly, VA mobile mental health apps do not provide a diagnosis and they are not a replacement for treatment with a healthcare professional. They can be used for your own self-care, to help you connect to treatment, or to supplement treatment you may be receiving.

Feedback welcome

Have you tried an app and found a bug? Have ideas or questions about an app? Your feedback helps Dr. Owen’s team make these apps better! Email your thoughts, questions, or comments to: MobileMentalHealth@va.gov. 

Listen to the PTSD Bytes Podcast

Comparing Prolonged Exposure vs. Cognitive Processing Therapy in treating PTSD in US Veterans

National Center researchers compared the effectiveness of two first-line PTSD treatments in the largest clinical trial of psychotherapy for PTSD to date. The study found Prolonged Exposure to be statistically more effective than Cognitive Processing Therapy in alleviating PTSD symptoms.

However the difference between the two therapies was not clinically significant. The researchers recommend shared decision-making between clinicians and patients to help the patients understand the evidence and select their preferred treatment.

COVID-19 and PTSD: Assessing the Pandemic's Toll on Mental Health

Center researchers Robert Pietrzak and Brian Marx talk with Yale about how pandemic-driven stressors have contributed to an increase in psychological distress.  Read More*