2024 San Antonio Combat PTSD Conference opens registration, features compelling line-up

 

Those with an interest in the psychological health needs of the warfighter can register now to grab their seats at the 9th Annual San Antonio Combat PTSD Conference. Slated for Oct. 22–23 at the Briscoe Western Art Museum in downtown San Antonio, and the only major conference of its type, the event last year saw a sell-out crowd. Organizers advise early registration to ensure a spot.

The San Antonio Combat PTSD Conference is sponsored by the South Texas Research Organizational Network Guiding Studies on Trauma and Resilience, or STRONG STAR Consortium, and The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio). Recognized as the premier scientific gathering on the topic of military psychological health, the annual event shares the latest advances in the state of the science on the prevention and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder and commonly co-occurring conditions that affect military service members and veterans.

The conference attracts researchers, clinicians, leaders and policy makers throughout the nation and the world.

The conference attracts an international audience that includes researchers, clinicians, leaders and policy makers within the U.S. Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs as well as from academic institutions and the civilian sector. Numerous military personnel, veterans and community members with an interest in the mental health needs of our nation’s warfighters also join the proceedings, as do students and professional trainees.

Alan Peterson, PhD, director of the STRONG STAR Consortium and professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at UT Health San Antonio is featured addressing the audience during the 2023 San Antonio Combat PTSD Conference.

“We’re excited to announce this year’s compelling speaker line-up and promise attendees an experience unlike what they’ll find anywhere else,” said Alan Peterson, PhD, director of the STRONG STAR Consortium and professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at UT Health San Antonio. The event offers the opportunity for 12 continuing education, or CE credits for licensed providers.

Program highlights

The perspective of women in the military will take center stage the first day of the event, beginning with “Profiles in Resilience” keynote speaker MJ Hegar. A decorated U.S. Air Force veteran and author of “Shoot Like a Girl,” Hegar was shot down while serving as a combat rescue pilot during her third tour in Afghanistan. When resulting injuries barred her from flying, she fought a policy that excluded women from serving in ground combat and scored a historic victory. Her story and bravery inspire audiences to persevere through change, hardship and any obstacles in their way.

Following Hegar will be a women veterans panel, which will allow for an interactive discussion about the unique challenges and experiences of female service members. Then, a scientific presentation will report outcomes of a major study assessing differences in sleep disorders between military men and women. The event’s first day will round out with presentations on novel and adaptive approaches to post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD treatment.

Last year’s event saw a sell-out crowd.

The second day will feature a keynote address by renowned expert Craig Bryan, PsyD, speaking on innovations in the field of suicide prevention. He’ll be followed by other experts addressing veteran suicide; how cultural differences can impact response to trauma and to PTSD treatment; and the use of artificial intelligence to improve cognitive-behavioral therapies. Experts will also speak about new projects coming down the pike to address PTSD and co-occurring conditions such as traumatic brain injury, chronic pain, sleep disorders, tinnitus, marital/relationship issues and other issues. Also, back by popular demand, is a panel discussion with expert clinicians, allowing audience members to ask questions directly relevant to clinical practice.

“This conference is a tremendous opportunity to hear the latest progress in addressing the complex issues facing military men and women impacted by trauma,” said Peterson. “Attendees also appreciate this chance to dialogue with their peers not only about where we’ve come but also about where we’re going. Where does the science need to move from here, and how can we best accomplish that for the benefit of service members and veterans?”

The importance of partnership

Peterson expressed his appreciation to sponsors who make the San Antonio Combat PTSD Conference possible. He particularly thanked the Bob Woodruff Foundation, which continues its vital role as the event’s presenting sponsor. “Their appreciation of this conference and generosity toward it are a big reason we’re able to host the event and to keep registration fees down,” he said.

Margaret “Meg” Harrell, PhD, chief program officer of the Bob Woodruff Foundation, addresses attendees at the 2023 San Antonio Combat PTSD Conference.

The Bob Woodruff Foundation raises awareness about the tough challenges veterans and military families are facing and invests in solutions to help support them in the next chapter of their lives.

“The 2024 San Antonio Combat PTSD Conference is a crucial event that brings together leading experts to share groundbreaking advancements in diagnosing and treating combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder,” said Anne Marie Dougherty, CEO of the Bob Woodruff Foundation. “Our commitment to ensuring veterans and service members lead stable, successful lives aligns with the conference’s mission, and we are proud to contribute to support this important initiative for the sixth year.”

For additional information about the conference, registration and CE opportunities, visit www.combatPTSDconference.com.



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