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 our past and returning Veterans. Fortunately, a number of proven, evidence-based treatments have been developed to help Veterans with these issues. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one such treatment that has been shown to be effective for PTSD, stress, and anger management in a range of populations. Although treatment options are offered at many Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs), practical issues such as availability and location prevent many Veterans from taking full advantage of these options. To address these needs, we propose to design and demonstrate Remote Exercises for Learning Anger and Excitation Management (RELAX) a remote, technology-enabled, anger treatment and management system based on current evidence-based 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 signal analysis; and (4) supports communication and direction by the therapist through a web-based therapist interface.