Post trauma some people go onto to develop certain worldviews including the following: 1. The world is very dangerous. 2. I have no control over situations. 3. I am responsible for what has happened. Cognitive Therapy aims to modify cognitive distortions arising post trauma thereby reducing the intensity of the associated emotional reaction. It is…
DetailsA recent study of multigenerational family members initially exposed to trauma has suggested that the genetic makeup of some individuals makes them more vulnerable to PTSD, depression and anxiety. This study suggested that around 40% of variation shown in PTSD sufferers was acountable in terms of gentic factors and the balance attributable to nongenetic factors.…
DetailsRecent research has suggested that increased arousal, rapid heart and respiration rates, at the time of trauma may predict subsequent Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Elevated heart rate and respiration rate immediately following a traumatic event are shown to be associated with subsequent PTSD, suggesting a possible starting point for examining the mechanics of this disorder.
Bereavement is often seen as distict from depression and subsequently not warranting the same concern for treatment. In fact there is little distinction in the depression that occurs as the result of death or as the result of other negative life events. Treatment considerations should be based on such factors as the duration and intensity…
DetailsVictims of crime who do not have a trauma or psychiatric history and who have a good support system and reasonable life circumstances and are motivated for treatment are those most likely to benefit from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. When victims present with co-morbid conditions, such as depression and substance abuse issues, treatments for PTSD will need to…
DetailsApproximately 10% of all children in developed countries are victims of abuse. The impact of such abuse is often long lasting with victims often adopting criminal and addictive behaviours in later life. Only about half of all suspected child abuse is currently being reported to authorities. If you are aware that a child is being abuse…
DetailsMental health outcomes following serious trauma may be influenced by a strong ‘sense of purpose’ by the victim. If a victim has a sense of a higher purpose in life, and has a sense of control over their life, their chances of recovery post trauma may be enhanced. Individuals who show resilence, adaptation to disruptions…
Details50% of heart failure patients are depressed during the history of their disease.
Patients with Cardiac Defibrillators are twice as likely to die within 5 years if they also suffer from Posttaumatic Stress Disorder.
Both Clinical Depression and Posttraumatic Stree should be considered in the treatment of patients with heart disease.
How one deals with trauma, namely expectations of helplessness or control, may determine to a great extent how much one is impaired by the traumatic event. Post trauma do not only focus on the negative aspects of the incident, but look at your reslience, what you have learnt and how you can use this experience to…
DetailsIn a recent study over 30% of trauma victims reported sexual dysfuntion one year post injury, with those suffering the most severe injuries reporting the greatest risk for sexual dysfunction. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Depression were shown to be very prevalent within patients displaying more dysfunctional behaviour. In managing sexual dysfunction within trauma victims it may therefore be…
DetailsThere are two main components of Trauma-Specific Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Restructuring and Exposure Therapy. Cognitive Restructuring helps victims to re-evaluate traumatic events. Exposure Therapy helps victims to habituate to the trauma cues. Children’s treatment sessions involve psychoeducation, affect awareness and regulation, coping skills, exposure therapy and planning for future safety. For more information contact…
DetailsA recent study found that up to 15% of children can experience PTSD and that this condition does not always resolve spontaneously. PTSD is less obvious in children than in adults as it is more internalized and subtle. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy is seen as the most appropriate form of treatment for young children. For more information…
DetailsIt is estimated that up to 100,000 people were involved in the aftermath of the World Trade Centre terrorist attacks. Of these it was estimated that 11% met criteria for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, 9% for Depression, 5% for Panic Disorder and 62% for substantial stress reaction. Functional impairment in occupational, social and family life as…
DetailsA study has recently shown that harsh parenting, low socioeconomic status and physical aggression by parents leads to a higher risk of further victimization of these children by others. Harsh parenting may cause as well as be a result of a child’s aggression. A child may learn that aggression is a way to get what…
DetailsCyberbullying is the inappropriate use of technology, such as the internet or mobile phones, to cause harm to others. It has been estimated that up to 30% of adolescents are victims of bullying with up to 60% of cybervictims being females. Cyberbullies hide behing the technology and are sometimes difficult to trace. Cyberbullying may be…
DetailsIt has been recently shown at Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) reduces the psychological symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression in children exposed to trauma moreso that other therapies, such as art, play and drug therapies. It is suggested that up to 10% of all childen are exposed to trauma. While most children exposed to trauma go…
DetailsVictims of crime suffering from Posttraumatic Stress disorder (PTSD) are more likely to engage in behaviours which have adverse health consequences, such as cigarette smoking, alcol and drug abuse as well as poor diet and physical inactivity. 1. PTSD raises the risk of someone smoking by two-fold. 2. About half of individuals suffering from PTSD will…
DetailsPostraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has been shown to increase the risk of heart disease. PTSD should be considered just as likely a risk factor as smoking and cholesterol. Over time PTSD increases inflammation which can corrode a peson’s arteries. If you have been a victim of crime and suffering from PTSD you should contact Victims of…
DetailsFunctional Restoration Therapy (FRT) is a treatment for trauma related injuries such as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Adjustment Disorder. The principal of FRT is to examine functional changes adopted by individuals suffering from trauma related injuries, such as loss of social functioning, and to subsequently suggest behavioural changes to restore pre-trauma functioning. It is suggested…
DetailsDepression is a mood state characterized by a general loss of energy and interest in life. We can all feel depresseed at different times in our lives and for different reasons, such as relationship problems or work or school pressures. A depressive disorder is somewhat different and characterized by its severity and duration of symptoms. Common…
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