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Prevention and treatment of PTSD: the current evidence base

Authors :
Jonathan I. Bisson
Miranda Olff
Source :
European Journal of Psychotraumatology, Vol 12, Iss 1 (2021)
Publication Year :
2021
Publisher :
Taylor & Francis Group, 2021.

Abstract

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a common condition that affects millions of people across the world. Up to date recommendations based on the best available evidence are vital to prevent and treat this debilitating condition. In this issue, we are bringing together a series of systematic reviews and meta-analyses that underpinned the development of the 2018 International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies Guidelines. The strongest evidence was found for psychological treatments for PTSD, in particular for cognitive behavioural therapy with a trauma focus (CBT-TF)(generic), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), cognitive therapy (CT), eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) and prolonged exposure (PE). For the subgroup of military personnel and veterans, results were less impressive. Dropout from trauma-focused psychological treatments was higher than for other forms of psychological treatment for PTSD in adults. For early interventions, CBT-TF, CT and EMDR were recommended. With regard to pharmacological approaches, a number of them were effective but with a low effect size. Of the pharmacologically assisted psychotherapies, MDMA-assisted psychotherapy was promising. Six complementary and alternative approaches showed emerging evidence. We now have an evidence base for a diverse range of pharmacological, psychological and other approaches that should facilitate their implementation and lead to the more effective management of people affected by traumatic events.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20008066 and 20008198
Volume :
12
Issue :
1
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
European Journal of Psychotraumatology
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.88fbd3abc0f7463e8968214a51c4722b
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/20008198.2020.1824381