DCoE Blog

• 2 Mobile Apps Help Patient-Provider Collaboration

  Posted by Dr. Julie Kinn, T2 clinical psychologist on February 12, 2013

  It's difficult to estimate how many of my psychotherapy patients actually completed homework between sessions. For those who returned to my office with an automatic thought record or other tracking tool, I'm guessing at least half completed it while sitting in the waiting room.

  One of the reasons National Center for Telehealth and Technology (T2) developed the "T2 Mood Tracker" mobile app was to help patients have an easy and anonymous way to monitor, track and reference their moods and behaviors as well as other related health information over time. Instead of completing worksheets, users can slide buttons on their smartphone or tablet computer. And, to anyone looking over a user's shoulder, it just looks like he or she is playing a game, not actually completing therapy homework. Further, it's unusual to lose a phone or tablet, whereas those worksheets seem to magically disappear each week. 

  

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  Categories: Technology , Veterans , Resources , Treatment , Psychological Health   |   Comments (3)

• Tips on Reducing Job Interview Stress: Before, During and After

  Posted by Corina Notyce, DCoE Public Affairs on February 7, 2013

  

  U.S. Army photo by Dustin Senger

  If you’re like many people, the initial excitement felt after landing an interview with a potential employer turns quickly to feelings of nervousness about the interview and questions you may be asked, or questions you hope aren’t asked. To help you manage these unknowns and prepare for what follows, the Real Warriors Campaign article, “Tips on Reducing Job Interview Stress,” offers insight to help you build confidence and reduce stress during the job interview process.

  Before the Interview: Prepare
  You’ve secured the interview, now prepare for it. The interviewing process is an important opportunity for the employer to learn more about you in addition to what’s on your resume. It’s also a chance for you to learn more about the company and position for which you’re interviewing. Below are some best practices to help you organize your thoughts and gather essential information to share:

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  Categories: Real Warriors Campaign/Stigma , Stress , Veterans , Resources , Psychological Health   |   Comments (0)

• What You Need to Know About Substance Abuse and TBI

  Posted by Diana Moon, DCoE Public Affairs on February 5, 2013

  

  U.S. Navy photo by Seaman Tina Staffieri

  For many, drinking in moderation doesn’t pose a problem. But for those with traumatic brain injury (TBI), using drugs or alcohol to cope can be dangerous. Providers need to be aware that failure to treat substance abuse problems following TBI may be counterproductive to a successful recovery, and lead to added medical, psychiatric or behavioral problems, unemployment and family troubles for patients.

  The Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE) addressed these concerns during the January webinar, “Substance Abuse and Traumatic Brain Injury: Magnitude, Manifestations, Myths and Management.” Dr. Charles H. Bombardier, professor of rehabilitation medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine, discussed key messages for health professionals to consider when working with patients with both substance abuse and TBI, which included:

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  Categories: Traumatic Brain Injury , Research , Substance Misuse Treatment , Treatment , Psychological Health   |   Comments (6)