Definition: Stress-inoculation training (or SIT) is a cognitive behavioral treatment for PTSD where the basic goal is to help a patient gain confidence in his ability to cope with anxiety and fear stemming from trauma-related reminders.
In SIT, the therapist helps the client become more aware of what things are reminders (also referred to as "cues") for fear and anxiety. In addition, clients learn a variety of coping skills that are useful in managing anxiety, such as muscle relaxation and deep breathing.
Patients learn how to detect and identify cues as soon as they appear so that the patient can put the newly learned coping skills into immediate action. In doing so, the patient can tackle the anxiety and stress early on before it gets out of control.
Also Known As: SIT
