Cognitive-Behavioural Strategies for Coping with Combat Stress in Veterans with Varying Levels of Post-Traumatic Symptoms: Component of the National Strategy to Counteract Enemy Cognitive Influence

Objective

The study aimed to analyse the differentiated effectiveness and strategic role of cognitive-behavioural strategies in overcoming combat stress and strengthening veterans’ resilience to informational and psychological influence.

Methods

Content analysis and monitoring of official resources were employed to examine international psychological support programmes. A structural-functional approach modelled interrelations among coping strategies, while comparative analysis enabled evaluation of key intervention components and outcomes across selected national models (USA, UK, Ukraine).

Results

The analysis demonstrated that cognitive-behavioural interventions function not only as clinical but also as strategic components of rehabilitation systems. A differentiated approach based on symptom severity proved more effective than standardised programmes by aligning specific cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) mechanisms with levels of functional impairment and corresponding functional outcomes across symptom groups. Cognitive restructuring showed the greatest relevance for mild and moderate manifestations, while controlled exposure techniques were most effective in stabilising intrusive symptoms and avoidance behaviour. For severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), integrated CBT combined with pharmacological and social-support interventions demonstrated the highest potential for functional recovery. Comparative analysis of international programmes showed that the most effective models combine evidence-based CBT with structured social-support systems and digital technologies demonstrating improved functional stabilisation and reintegration outcomes.

Conclusions

The findings confirmed the value of cognitive-behavioural strategies as a foundation for fostering resilience among veterans to both stress and informational influence. The results indicate the need for greater integration of mental health, cognitive security, and social reintegration. The approaches developed may inform national and international programmes of psychological rehabilitation and veteran support through stratified intervention models.