The Demonstration Treatment Project is an eighteen (18) month research study which tracks the
health and well-being of NE Ohio Gulf War veterans at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VAMC.
Veterans deployed to the Gulf are eligible for a complete physical exam, laboratory work-up,
mental health evaluation, and individual care management. Veterans are asked to participate in
follow-up assessments at three (3) month intervals.
The major goals of treatment are to help each participant:
Alleviate misconceptions and fears by an improved understanding of the known
consequences of Gulf war service, and of his/her own health condition.
Maximize control over symptoms.
Reduce symptoms and improve mood.
Address psychosocial contributors to symptom-based disability.
Maximize coping with persistent and disabling physical symptoms.
Formulate a consistent, primary care-based follow up plan and reduce excessive use of the
health care system.
Improve relationships with significant others.
Begin an individualized program of gradual, paced physical activation, with instruction
arranged on-site or via telephone.
