Remote Exercises for Learning Anger and Excitation Management (RELAX)

Post-deployment psychological health issues such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, and comorbid stress and anger management disorders are experienced by substantial numbers of service members. Fortunately, a number of proven, evidence-based treatments have been developed to help these communities with these issues. Although treatment options are offered at many Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs) and Medical Treatment Facilities (MTFs), practical issues such as availability and location prevent many service members from taking full advantage of these options. In our Phase I effort, we designed and demonstrated Remote Exercises for Learning Anger and Excitation Management (RELAX) a remote, technology-enabled, anger treatment and management system based on current evidence-based Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) interventions. RELAX (1) enables the practice of anger management strategies remotely through mobile phone interfaces; (2) integrates with evidence-based treatments through the implementation of an existing CBT anger management course; (3) provides information, direction, and feedback through physiological sensors; and (4) supports communication and direction by the therapist through a web-based therapist interface. Based on our Phase I success, we recommend a Phase II effort focused on developing and experimentally evaluating a full-scope RELAX system.