Mantram Repetition Program for Veterans with PTSD and Chronic Pain
Official title: Randomized Controlled Trial of Mantram Repetition Program Versus Health and Wellness Psychoeducation for Veterans with Comorbid Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Chronic Pain
Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-11401142 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A VA study will test a meditation-based program to help veterans who have both PTSD and chronic pain feel better and sleep better, compared with standard health education.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2026 |
| Project end | September 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| NIH project number | 1I01RD001563-01A2 |
| Project ID | NIH-11401142 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Veterans with both PTSD and chronic non-malignant pain who are receiving VA care.
✕Less likely to help
Some participants may not experience meaningful improvements in pain or PTSD symptoms.
What this research studies
This project invites veterans with PTSD and chronic pain to participate in a randomized trial comparing the Mantram Repetition Program to a health and wellness education program. The team will measure outcomes like pain interference, sleep, and psychological well-being over time to see which approach helps more. The intervention uses silent repetition of a calming word plus focused attention and slower breathing to reduce arousal and distress. The study is led by the VA San Diego Health Care System and aims to be practical for real-world use within VA care. Participation could involve sessions, surveys, and tracking of symptoms with the goal of improving daily functioning.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience less pain disruption, better sleep, and improved mood and functioning.
How similar studies have gone: Previous trials suggest MRP can help with PTSD and arousal, but testing in Veterans with comorbid pain is new.
Where this research is happening
-
VA San Diego Healthcare System
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Malaktaris, Anne — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Malaktaris, Anne
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.