Targeted prevention of posttraumatic stress disorder

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe, frequently chronic condition with a high rate of co-morbidity with other psychiatric syndromes. In contrast to the majority of psychiatric disorders, the traumatic event in PTSD constitutes a clearly defined etiological factor. A growing understanding of the mechanisms contributing to the development of PTSD has highlighted the possibilities for early preventive psychological and pharmacological treatment during the so-called golden hours after a traumatic experience. Whereas preliminary evidence suggests that a pharmacological recalibration of the HPA system and cognitive behavioral therapy may be helpful, other frequently used strategies, such as psychological debriefing or benzodiazepine treatment, seem to be largely ineffective, possibly even worsening PTSD symptoms.