Psychological Interventions to Prevent PTSD

Experiencing a traumatic event is ubiquitous, whereas developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is less likely. However, PTSD can become a chronic and disabling disorder, making primary and secondary prevention important goals. Studies have shown that we know little about preventing PTSD before the traumatic event has happened. In the first hours after the traumatic event, psychological debriefing is likely to have no or potentially a negative effect on subsequent PTSD and psychological interventions have not shown consistent results. Providing common-sense help and reassurance is likely to be helpful. In the first weeks or months after the traumatic event, providing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for highly symptomatic patients is helpful in preventing PTSD. When resources are not immediately available, waiting for up to 3 months before starting CBT gives similar long-term results.