A Qualitative Study to Explore Feasibility of Implementing Seeking Safety and Trauma-Sensitive Yoga.

Abstract

Background: Seeking Safety (SS) is an evidence-based intervention that benefits patients living with co-occurring PTSD and SUD. Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TSY) has been found to be another beneficial treatment for this patient population. In this study, we examine the feasibility of implementing both SS and TSY within a residential addiction treatment program to support this patient population.

Methods: We conducted a qualitative prospective evaluation at the Jubilee Treatment Centre in Timmins Ontario from March 2023 to October 2023. Staff members of this center delivered the SS intervention and the TSY was delivered virtually by a certified yoga teacher to the participants. The data sources included patient data, focus groups, and treatment satisfaction surveys to evaluate the effect of this blended intervention on study participants and program staff. A descriptive statistical analysis as well a thematic analysis was conducted to analyze both quantitative and qualitative data, respectively.

Results: A total of 45 individuals, participated in this 6-month-long intervention. The average age of the participants was 37.88. 84.44% of participants experienced mental health problems in the last 90 days, and 80% used substances in the last 90 days. The paired t-test analysis indicated a significant difference in Trauma Symptoms Checklist 40 scores before and after the intervention.

Conclusion: This study provided valuable insights into participants' experiences of participating in this innovative intervention. The finding can benefit future researchers who seek to implement similar programs to support individuals with PTSD and SUD.