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Klein AB, Schnurr PP, Bovin MJ, Friedman MJ, Keane TM, Marx BP. An empirical investigation of definitions of subthreshold posttraumatic stress disorder. J Trauma Stress 2024; 37:113-125. [PMID: 37937636 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Subthreshold posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has long been recognized as an important construct that identifies a subgroup of individuals who report significant PTSD symptoms and associated disability but do not endorse enough symptoms to meet the criteria for a full PTSD diagnosis. Different investigators have defined subthreshold PTSD in various ways, making it difficult to interpret findings across studies. To address this problem, we systematically compared individuals who met criteria for nine different subthreshold PTSD definitions with individuals diagnosed with either full PTSD or no PTSD (i.e., failed to meet the criteria for a subthreshold definition) with respect to prevalence and associated clinical outcomes of interest. Participants were 1,082 veterans enrolled in the Veterans After Discharge Longitudinal Registry. PTSD and subthreshold PTSD diagnostic status were determined using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5) and validated self-report instruments were used to assess clinical outcomes. Across outcomes, subthreshold definitions generally identified a group of participants that was distinguishable from participants in both the PTSD and no PTSD groups, rs = .02-.47. We discuss the benefits and drawbacks of various subthreshold definitions and highlight the need for additional work evaluating these definitions across additional outcomes and samples. In the interim, we propose a working case definition of subthreshold PTSD as meeting any three of the four DSM-5 symptom criteria (i.e., Criteria B, C, D, and E) along with Criterion A and Criteria F-H. The results suggest subthreshold PTSD is a clinically meaningful construct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra B Klein
- Mental Health Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Paula P Schnurr
- Executive Division, National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, Vermont, USA
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Michelle J Bovin
- Behavioral Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew J Friedman
- Executive Division, National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, Vermont, USA
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Terence M Keane
- Behavioral Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brian P Marx
- Behavioral Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Marazziti D, Carmassi C, Cappellato G, Chiarantini I, Massoni L, Mucci F, Arone A, Violi M, Palermo S, De Iorio G, Dell’Osso L. Novel Pharmacological Targets of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1731. [PMID: 37629588 PMCID: PMC10455314 DOI: 10.3390/life13081731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychopathological condition with a heterogeneous clinical picture that is complex and challenging to treat. Its multifaceted pathophysiology still remains an unresolved question and certainly contributes to this issue. The pharmacological treatment of PTSD is mainly empirical and centered on the serotonergic system. Since the therapeutic response to prescribed drugs targeting single symptoms is generally inconsistent, there is an urgent need for novel pathogenetic hypotheses, including different mediators and pathways. This paper was conceived as a narrative review with the aim of debating the current pharmacological treatment of PTSD and further highlighting prospective targets for future drugs. The authors accessed some of the main databases of scientific literature available and selected all the papers that fulfilled the purpose of the present work. The results showed that most of the current pharmacological treatments for PTSD are symptom-based and show only partial benefits; this largely reflects the limited knowledge of its neurobiology. Growing, albeit limited, data suggests that the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, opioids, glutamate, cannabinoids, oxytocin, neuropeptide Y, and microRNA may play a role in the development of PTSD and could be targeted for novel treatments. Indeed, recent research indicates that examining different pathways might result in the development of novel and more efficient drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Marazziti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
- Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Carmassi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
| | - Gabriele Cappellato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
| | - Ilaria Chiarantini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
| | - Leonardo Massoni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
| | - Federico Mucci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
| | - Alessandro Arone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
| | - Miriam Violi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
| | - Stefania Palermo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
| | - Giovanni De Iorio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
| | - Liliana Dell’Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy (L.D.)
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Kelly MR, Zeineddine S, Mitchell MN, Sankari A, Pandya N, Carroll S, Shamim-Uzzaman QA, Salloum A, Badr MS, Martin JL. Insomnia severity predicts depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder in veterans with spinal cord injury or disease: a cross-sectional observational study. J Clin Sleep Med 2023; 19:695-701. [PMID: 36661092 PMCID: PMC10071376 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.10410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES To assess the association of insomnia symptoms and psychiatric symptoms in patients with spinal cord injury or disease (SCI/D). METHODS In this cross-sectional observational study, veterans with SCI/D (n = 72; mean = 59.85 ± 10.4 years; 92% male) completed baseline measures, including the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) during the baseline phase of a clinical trial on treatment of sleep disorders in veterans with SCI/D. Depression severity was measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9; sleep items excluded), anxiety severity was measured by the Generalized Anxiety Disorder screener (GAD-7), and probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was measured by the Primary Care PTSD screener. Blocked regression was used to evaluate the impact of insomnia symptoms (ISI) on mental health measures after accounting for demographics and level of spinal cord injury/disease. RESULTS On average, participants scored in the mild range for depression (PHQ-9 = 7.4 ± 5.9) and anxiety severity (GAD-7 = 6.1 ± 6.1). In total, 36.1% (n = 26) screened positive for probable PTSD. ISI explained 19% of the variance in PHQ-9 and 20% of the variance in GAD-7 (P < .001) over and above demographics and SCI/D level of injury/disease. Odds of probable PTSD were increased 1.22-fold for each 1 unit increase in ISI (P = .001) after accounting for demographics and level of injury/disease. CONCLUSIONS In veterans with SCI/D, insomnia severity was linked to depression and anxiety symptom severity and risk of PTSD. Study results warrant further research to evaluate the impact of insomnia treatment on depression, anxiety, and PTSD in patients with SCI/D. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; Name: Treatment of Sleep-disordered Breathing in Patients With SCI; URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02830074; Identifier: NCT02830074. CITATION Kelly MR, Zeineddine S, Mitchell MN, et al. Insomnia severity predicts depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder in veterans with spinal cord injury or disease: a cross-sectional observational study. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(4):695-701.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica R. Kelly
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Salam Zeineddine
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
- John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Michael N. Mitchell
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California
| | - Abdulghani Sankari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
- John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan
- Department of Medical Education, Ascension Providence, Southfield, Michigan
| | - Nishtha Pandya
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
- John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Sean Carroll
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
- John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Q. Afifa Shamim-Uzzaman
- Sleep Disorders Center, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Internal Medicine/Division of General Medicine and Department of Neurology/Division of Sleep Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Anan Salloum
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
- John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan
| | - M. Safwan Badr
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
- John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Jennifer L. Martin
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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May K, Van Hooff M, Doherty M, Iannos M. Experiences and perceptions of family members of emergency first responders with post-traumatic stress disorder: a qualitative systematic review. JBI Evid Synth 2023; 21:629-668. [PMID: 36164707 DOI: 10.11124/jbies-21-00433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this review was to examine the perceptions and experiences of family members of emergency first responders (EFRs) with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). INTRODUCTION Research indicates that rates of PTSD in EFRs are approximately double civilian rates; however, little is known about the resultant effects on their family members. This review identifies the qualitative literature and data examining the perceptions and experiences of families with a current or former EFR family member with diagnosed or undiagnosed PTSD. INCLUSION CRITERIA This review included all relevant articles, books, reports, and doctoral theses in English, globally, with no time limits, examining the experiences of family members of current or former EFRs family with diagnosed or undiagnosed PTSD. All possible familial configurations and family members were considered, including nuclear, separated, and blended families, of an EFR. There were no age restrictions on EFRs or their family members, or limitations on recency of service. EFRs included police, ambulance/paramedics, firefighters, and rescue personnel. METHODS The databases searched included MEDLINE (PubMed), PsycINFO (Ovid), Embase, CINAHL (EBSCOhost), and Scopus. Hand-searching of relevant journals was conducted across Australian Paramedic , Australasian Journal of Paramedicine , British Paramedic Journal , International Paramedic Practice , Irish Journal of Paramedicine , Journal of Paramedic Practice , Prehospital and Disaster Medicine , and Prehospital Emergency Care . Sources of unpublished studies and gray literature, such as dissertations, were searched via PTSDpubs (ProQuest) and OpenGrey (DANS EASY Data Archive). The search was updated in October 2021. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were screened by 2 independent reviewers against the inclusion criteria, and any conflicting views were resolved by discussion. Results were critically appraised for methodological quality. Post-data extraction results were synthesized and evaluated for credibility and dependability in accordance with the a priori protocol. RESULTS The search yielded 1264 records and 48 were deemed eligible for full-text review. Seven studies were critically appraised, and 5 studies were agreed upon for inclusion in the synthesis. From these 5 studies, 53 findings were extracted with associated illustrations and synthesized into 9 categories. Following meta-aggregation, 4 broad synthesized findings were developed: i) Changed family member roles, spousal relationships difficulties, and family functioning when living with an EFR with PTSD; ii) Spouses of an EFR with PTSD may experience vicarious trauma, secondary trauma, and/or overburden as a consequence of protecting the family unit; iii) Children of an EFR parent with PTSD may experience secondary trauma, vicarious trauma, and/or separation anxiety; and iv) Spouses' help-seeking and support needs for their EFR partners with PTSD, their children, and themselves. The first 3 findings received a low ConQual score due to low dependability and moderate credibility. The final finding received a moderate ConQual score due to low dependability and high credibility. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the 5 qualitative studies included in the review showed significant mental health and functional impacts for family members of EFR with PTSD. Most studies focused on spouses, with some limited data on children. Two of the 5 studies focused on the 9/11 World Trade Center terrorist attacks in the United States. The findings also indicate the need for targeted psychological and social services for EFR family members. Recommendations derived from the synthesized findings of this review include the need for further qualitative research, not only to deepen the understanding about the impacts and needs of EFR with PTSD on family members, but also to inform the design and provision of support services. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO CRD42020196605.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen May
- School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Military and Emergency Services Health Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Miranda Van Hooff
- Military and Emergency Services Health Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Matthew Doherty
- School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Marie Iannos
- Military and Emergency Services Health Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Russell B, Mussap AJ. Posttraumatic stress, visual working memory, and visual imagery in military personnel. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 43:1-18. [PMID: 36845204 PMCID: PMC9942044 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-023-04338-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by disruptions to cognitive functioning. Two studies were conducted to examine the relevance of military-related PTSD to two cognitive functions - visual working memory and visual imagery. Participants were military personnel who reported their PTSD diagnosis history and completed a self-administered screening tool for PTSD, the PTSD Checklist - Military Version. In Study 1, 138 personnel also completed a memory span task and a 2-back task using colored words in which Stroop interference was introduced via the semantic content of the words. In Study 2, a separate group of 211 personnel completed measures of perceived imagery vividness and spontaneous use of visual imagery. Interference effects on working memory in PTSD-diagnosed military personnel were not replicated. However, ANCOVA and structural equation modelling revealed that PTSD-intrusions were associated with poorer working memory whereas PTSD-arousal was associated with spontaneous use of visual imagery. We interpret these results as evidence that intrusive flashbacks disrupt working memory performance not by limiting memory capacity nor by interfering directly with memory functions such as inhibition, but by adding internal noise in the form of task-irrelevant memories and emotions. Visual imagery appears to be unrelated to these flashbacks but with arousal symptoms of PTSD, perhaps in the form of flashforwards about feared/anticipated threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenton Russell
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, 3125 Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexander J. Mussap
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, 3125 Melbourne, Australia
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Hruska B, Patterson PD, Doshi AA, Guyette MK, Wong AH, Chang BP, Suffoletto BP, Pacella-LaBarbara ML. Examining the prevalence and health impairment associated with subthreshold PTSD symptoms (PTSS) among frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 158:202-208. [PMID: 36592534 PMCID: PMC9796598 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased healthcare workers' (HCWs) risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although subthreshold PTSD symptoms (PTSS) are common and increase vulnerability for health impairments, they have received little attention. We examined the prevalence of subthreshold PTSS and their relationship to physical health symptoms and sleep problems among HCWs during the pandemic's second wave (01/21-02/21). Participants (N = 852; 63.1% male; Mage = 38.34) completed the Short-Form PTSD Checklist (SF-PCL), the Cohen-Hoberman Inventory of Physical Symptoms, and the PROMIS Sleep-Related Impairment-Short-Form 4a. We created three groups with the SF-PCL: scores ≥11 = probable PTSD (5.5%); scores between 1 and 10 = subthreshold PTSS (55.3%); scores of 0 = no PTSS (39.2%). After controlling for demographics, occupational characteristics, and COVID-19 status, HCWs with subthreshold PTSS experienced greater physical health symptoms and sleep problems than HCWs with no PTSS. While HCWs with PTSD reported the greatest health impairment, HCWs with subthreshold PTSS reported 88% more physical health symptoms and 36% more sleep problems than HCWs with no PTSS. Subthreshold PTSS are common and increase risk for health impairment. Interventions addressing HCWs' mental health in response to the COVID-19 pandemic must include subthreshold PTSS to ensure their effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryce Hruska
- Department of Public Health, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - P Daniel Patterson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ankur A Doshi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Ambrose H Wong
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Bernard P Chang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian P Suffoletto
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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Sprang G, Whitt-Woosley A, Eslinger J. Diagnostic and Translational Utility of the Secondary Traumatic Stress Clinical Algorithm (STS-CA). JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP19811-NP19826. [PMID: 34507502 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211044961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Current tools available to assess secondary traumatic stress (STS) do not account for whether the symptoms are functionally related to indirect trauma, determine functional impairment caused by the STS symptoms, and/or consider the duration of the disturbance. This prevents delineation of various expressions of traumatic stress related to indirect trauma that may constitute the phenomenon of STS. The STS Clinical Algorithm (STS-CA) was developed to make these distinctions, so that interventions can be tailored to need. This study investigates the following: (1) the diagnostic concordance between the STS-CA findings and scores on the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS); (2) reasons for diagnostic discrepancies between the STS-CA and the STSS assessments. Three trained interviewers used the STS-CA to guide the determination of clinical outcome (N = 181) in a diverse group of helping professionals. There was 100% agreement between the CAPS and the STS-CA, and fair agreement (κ =.426, p = .000) between the STS-CA and the STSS. The STS-CA demonstrated more sensitivity in classifying positive cases, and specificity in delineating those with atypical cluster presentations or little to no functional impairment that prohibited a post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis than the STSS. Effective treatment of STS requires proper identification and the delivery of protocols that are tailored to the unique ways that STS manifests. This study provides some insights into the utility of the STS-CA in guiding this process and creates STS categories to organize and classify intervention strategies.
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Ng LC, Oblath R, Brigham R, Tai MH, Coles M. Development and pilot testing of a five item traumatic stress screener for use with adolescents in pediatric primary care. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2022; 16:71. [PMID: 35999580 PMCID: PMC9397184 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-022-00501-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Almost 80% of adolescents in the US have experienced a traumatic event, and approximately 7% have post-traumatic stress disorder. However, there is a lack of validated and feasible assessments for assessing traumatic stress symptoms in pediatric primary care, and traumatic stress symptoms are routinely unidentified. This study aimed to develop, pilot test, and assess the psychometric properties of the Adolescent Primary Care Traumatic Stress Screen (APCTSS), a five-item yes/no screener for post-traumatic stress symptoms in adolescents designed for use in pediatric primary care. METHODS The APCTSS was developed by pediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers who all provide care to trauma-affected adolescent patients. The providers sought to create a developmentally appropriate tool that accurately reflected DSM-5 posttraumatic stress symptoms and that was feasible and acceptable for use in pediatric primary care. To develop the APCTSS, they combined and adapted the UCLA Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Reaction Index for DSM-5 with the adult Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5. Next, 213 adolescent medicine patients were universally approached during routine clinic visits and 178 agreed to participate and were enrolled. The 178 patients were aged 13-22 (M=18.4, SD=2.3), 64.4% female; 62.1% Black or African-American, and 20.7% Hispanic/Latinx. Patients completed APCTSS, Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQ-A), and the Child PTSD Symptom Scale for DSM-5 Interview (CPSS-5-I), and 61 completed the Traumatic Events Screening Inventory for Children (TESI-C). RESULTS 56.7% reported a criterion A trauma, 30.1% met criteria for DSM-5 PTSD, 7.4% met criteria for subsyndromal PTSD symptoms, and 19.0% for post-event impairing symptoms. Validity and reliability testing indicated that the APCTSS was internally consistent, had good concurrent and discriminant validity, and demonstrated good sensitivity and specificity in identifying adolescents at high risk for post-trauma symptoms. Over half of patients (56.0%) who screened positive on the APCTSS (score ≥2) would not have been identified as having a mental health concern using the PHQ-A, including 60.8% of patients who had probable PTSD, subsyndromal PTSD, or post-event impairing symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Many youth with trauma-related mental health symptoms are unidentified in pediatric primary care, which is a missed opportunity for early identification and may contribute to a host of poor outcomes. The development of an effective and feasible traumatic stress screening tool for youth primary care may improve early intervention, and the health and well-being of trauma affected youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C. Ng
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Present Address: Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, Psychology Building 1285, Box 951563, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1563 USA ,Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston University, Boston, MA USA
| | - Rachel Oblath
- grid.239424.a0000 0001 2183 6745Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA United States
| | - Rebecca Brigham
- grid.239424.a0000 0001 2183 6745Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA USA
| | - Ming Him Tai
- grid.239424.a0000 0001 2183 6745Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA United States ,grid.17635.360000000419368657Present Address: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN USA ,grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Department of Psychology, Boston University, Boston, MA USA
| | - Mandy Coles
- grid.239424.a0000 0001 2183 6745Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA USA ,grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Department of Pediatrics, Boston University, Boston, MA USA
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Harris CE, Allbaugh LJ, Kaslow NJ. Childhood Physical Abuse and Antisocial Traits: Mediating Role of Posttraumatic Stress Symptom Clusters. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2022; 15:249-259. [PMID: 35600521 PMCID: PMC9120298 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-021-00364-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) are associated with both childhood physical abuse (CPA) and antisocial (AS) traits, yet their potential as mediators of the CPA-AS traits link is understudied and the specific roles of individual symptom clusters in this relation is unknown. The current study aimed to examine the mediational role of PTSS in the relation between CPA and AS traits in a sample of low-income African American women with histories of intimate partner violence (IPV). It was hypothesized that avoidance would emerge as a significant mediator, whereas reexperiencing, numbing, and hyperarousal would not. Participants (N = 150) were recruited from a level-1 trauma public hospital and evaluated as part of a randomized controlled trial of a group therapy intervention for low-income, African American women suicide attempters with histories of IPV. The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale (PDS), and International Personality Disorder Examination-Screening Questionnaire (IPDE-SQ) were used to measure variables of interest. Using bootstrapping analyses, a parallel mediation model compared PTSS clusters as potential mediators of the CPA-AS traits relation, controlling for IPV. When reexperiencing, avoidance, numbing, and hyperarousal were entered simultaneously as potential mediators, only avoidance emerged as a significant mediator of the CPA-AS traits link. Avoidance symptoms may play a unique role in the link between early experiences of CPA and later AS traits among multiply traumatized African American women. Findings have implications for understanding AS traits in the context of early life trauma and suggest that targeting specific PTSS clusters (e.g., avoidance) may improve treatment outcomes for women in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E. Harris
- Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, 524 W. 59th Street, New York, NY 10019 USA
| | | | - Nadine J. Kaslow
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA USA
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Collin LJ, Veres K, Gradus JL, Ahern TP, Lash TL, Sørensen HT. Preexisting stress-related diagnoses and mortality: A Danish cancer cohort study. Cancer 2022; 128:1312-1320. [PMID: 34797563 PMCID: PMC8882160 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluated the association between preexisting stress-related diagnoses and mortality in a Danish population-based cancer cohort. METHODS This study included Danish patients with cancer diagnosed in 1995-2011 who had a stress-related diagnosis before their cancer diagnosis. Cancer patients without a prior stress-related diagnosis were matched 5:1 to the stress disorder cohort by cancer site, age group, calendar period, and sex. The 5-year cumulative incidence of cancer-specific and all-cause mortality was computed by stress-related diagnosis category. Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) associating stress-related diagnoses with mortality were computed by follow-up time, stress-related diagnosis category, stage, comorbidity status, and cancer type. RESULTS This study identified 4437 cancer patients with a preexisting stress-related diagnosis and 22,060 matched cancer cohort members. The 5-year cumulative risk of cancer-specific mortality was 33% (95% CI, 32%-35%) for those with a preexisting stress-related diagnosis and 29% (95% CI, 28%-29%) for those without a prior stress-related diagnosis. Cancer patients with a preexisting stress-related diagnosis had a 1.3 times higher cancer-specific mortality rate than the comparison cohort members (95% CI, 1.2-1.5). This increase persisted across categories of stress-related diagnosis. The association varied by stage and cancer type, with more pronounced associations found among those with a late stage at diagnosis and hematological malignancies. CONCLUSIONS Cancer patients with preexisting stress-related diagnoses had increased rates of cancer-specific and all-cause mortality. The results suggest that psychiatric comorbidities may be an important consideration for cancer prognosis, and cancer treatment informed by a patient's history may improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay J Collin
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Katalin Veres
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jaimie L Gradus
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Thomas P Ahern
- Department of Surgery, Robert Larner, M.D. College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont.,Department of Biochemistry, Robert Larner, M.D. College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont
| | - Timothy L Lash
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Henrik Toft Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
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11
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Gradus JL, Rosellini AJ, Szentkúti P, Horváth-Puhó E, Smith ML, Galatzer-Levy I, Lash TL, Galea S, Schnurr PP, Sørensen HT. Pre-trauma predictors of severe psychiatric comorbidity 5 years following traumatic experiences. Int J Epidemiol 2022; 51:1593-1603. [PMID: 35179599 PMCID: PMC9799210 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyac030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A minority of persons who have traumatic experiences go on to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), leading to interest in who is at risk for psychopathology after these experiences. Complicating this effort is the observation that post-traumatic psychopathology is heterogeneous. The goal of this nested case-control study was to identify pre-trauma predictors of severe post-traumatic psychiatric comorbidity, using data from Danish registries. METHODS The source population for this study was the population of Denmark from 1994 through 2016. Cases had received three or more psychiatric diagnoses (across all ICD-10 categories) within 5 years of a traumatic experience (n = 20 361); controls were sampled from the parent cohort using risk-set sampling (n = 81 444). Analyses were repeated in samples stratified by pre-trauma psychiatric diagnoses. We used machine learning methods (classification and regression trees and random forest) to determine the important predictors of severe post-trauma psychiatric comorbidity from among hundreds of pre-trauma predictor variables spanning demographic and social variables, psychiatric and somatic diagnoses and filled medication prescriptions. RESULTS In the full sample, pre-trauma psychiatric diagnoses (e.g. stress disorders, alcohol-related disorders, personality disorders) were the most important predictors of severe post-trauma psychiatric comorbidity. Among persons with no pre-trauma psychiatric diagnoses, demographic and social variables (e.g. marital status), type of trauma, medications used primarily to treat psychiatric symptomatology, anti-inflammatory medications and gastrointestinal distress were important to prediction. Results among persons with pre-trauma psychiatric diagnoses were consistent with the overall sample. CONCLUSIONS This study builds on the understanding of pre-trauma factors that predict psychopathology following traumatic experiences, by examining a broad range of predictors of post-trauma psychopathology and comorbidity beyond PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaimie L Gradus
- Corresponding author. Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany St, T318E, Boston, MA 02118, USA. E-mail:
| | - Anthony J Rosellini
- Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Péter Szentkúti
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Meghan L Smith
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Isaac Galatzer-Levy
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Timothy L Lash
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sandro Galea
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paula P Schnurr
- Executive Division, National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, VT, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Henrik T Sørensen
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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12
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Sampson L, Cohen GH, Fink DS, Conroy C, Calabrese JR, Wryobeck JM, Elhai JD, King AP, Liberzon I, Galea S. Cohort profile: the Ohio Army National Guard Mental Health Initiative (OHARNG-MHI). Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2021; 56:2107-2116. [PMID: 34480595 PMCID: PMC8577754 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-021-02166-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Rates of mental disorders in the United States military have increased in recent years. National Guard members may be particularly at risk for mental disorders, given their dual role as citizen-soldiers and their increased involvement in combat deployments during recent conflicts. The Ohio Army National Guard Mental Health Initiative (OHARNG-MHI) was launched to assess the prevalence, incidence, and potential causes and consequences of mental disorders in this unique population. METHODS OHARNG-MHI is a decade-long dynamic cohort study that followed over 3,000 National Guard members yearly through structured telephone interviews. RESULTS Findings thus far have applied a pre-, peri-, post-deployment framework, identifying factors throughout the life course associated with mental disorders, including childhood events and more recent events, both during and outside of deployment. An estimated 61% of participants had at least one mental disorder in their lifetime, the majority of which initiated prior to military service. Psychiatric comorbidity was common, as were alcohol use and stressful events. Latent class growth analyses revealed four distinct trajectory paths of both posttraumatic stress and depression symptoms across four years. Only 37% of soldiers with probable past-year mental disorders accessed mental health services in the subsequent year, with substance use disorders least likely to be treated. CONCLUSION Strengths of this study include a large number of follow-up interviews, detailed data on both military and non-military experiences, and a clinical assessment subsample that assessed the validity of the telephone screening instruments. Findings, methods, and procedures of the study are discussed, and collaborations are welcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sampson
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Gregory H. Cohen
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, U.S.A
| | - David S. Fink
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, U.S.A
| | - Carla Conroy
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, U.S.A
| | - Joseph R. Calabrese
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, U.S.A
| | - John M. Wryobeck
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, U.S.A
| | - Jon D. Elhai
- Department of Psychology, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, U.S.A
| | - Anthony P. King
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, U.S.A
| | - Israel Liberzon
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Texas A&M, College Station, TX, U.S.A
| | - Sandro Galea
- Office of the Dean, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, U.S.A
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13
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Pebole M, Gobin RL, Hall KS. Trauma-informed exercise for women survivors of sexual violence. Transl Behav Med 2021; 11:686-691. [PMID: 32535635 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibaa043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Compared to their male counterparts, women experience alarmingly high rates of sexual violence (SV). Nearly 20% of women in the USA have been victims of SV, and prevalence of sexual assault among female service members is reported to be even higher, up to 50%. SV results in negative health outcomes like posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, obesity, poor body image, and pain-related disability. Exercise has been shown to positively impact both mental and physical health outcomes in populations experiencing posttraumatic symptoms, yet women survivors of SV are often excluded from exercise trials in trauma-affected populations. The purpose of this paper is to comment on the importance of incorporating women-specific trauma-informed principles in the content and delivery of exercise interventions in trauma-affected populations, particularly as it relates to SV. Researchers discuss the implications of female-specific and trauma-informed exercise considerations for SV survivors. This commentary highlights the need for trauma-informed implementation efforts and outcome measurements in exercise interventions involving women affected by SV. Researchers call for (a) increased qualitative work on trauma-specific implementation efforts across exercise intervention domains and (b) increased assessment of trauma-specific outcomes in exercise trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Pebole
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Robyn L Gobin
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Katherine S Hall
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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14
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May K, Van Hooff M, Doherty M, Iannos M. Experiences and perceptions of family members of emergency first responders with post-traumatic stress disorder: a qualitative systematic review protocol. JBI Evid Synth 2021; 19:1622-1631. [PMID: 33651751 DOI: 10.11124/jbies-20-00255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this review is to understand the perceptions and experiences of family members of emergency first responders with post-traumatic stress disorder. INTRODUCTION Research indicates that rates of post-traumatic stress disorder in emergency first responders are approximately double civilian rates; however, little is known about the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder on family members. This review seeks to identify qualitative research on families' experiences and perceptions. INCLUSION CRITERIA This review will consider all studies of family members of current or former emergency first responders with diagnosed or undiagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder of any level of severity. All possible familial configurations and family members will be considered, including nuclear, separated, and blended families, of a current or former emergency first responder. There will be no age restrictions on emergency first responders or their family members, or limitations on recency of service. Emergency first responders may include police, ambulance workers, paramedics, firefighters, or rescue personnel, with no restriction on geographic location. METHODS The databases to be searched will include PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL, PTSDpubs, and Scopus, as well as handsearching of relevant journals. Unpublished studies and gray literature will be searched via PTSDpubs and OpenGrey. The search will aim to find English-language publications with no time limits. Titles and abstracts will be reviewed and then full texts, all screened by two independent reviewers against the inclusion criteria. Any conflicting views will be resolved by discussion or a third reviewer. Results will be critically appraised for methodological quality. Data extraction results will be synthesized and evaluated for credibility and dependability. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO CRD42020196605.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen May
- School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Military and Emergency Services Health Australia, The Hospital Research Foundation, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Miranda Van Hooff
- Military and Emergency Services Health Australia, The Hospital Research Foundation, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Matthew Doherty
- School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Marie Iannos
- Military and Emergency Services Health Australia, The Hospital Research Foundation, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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15
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Meentken MG, van der Mheen M, van Beynum IM, Aendekerk EWC, Legerstee JS, van der Ende J, Del Canho R, Lindauer RJL, Hillegers MHJ, Helbing WA, Moll HA, Utens EMWJ. Long-term effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in children and adolescents with medically related subthreshold post-traumatic stress disorder: a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Cardiovasc Nurs 2021; 20:348-357. [PMID: 33709117 DOI: 10.1093/eurjcn/zvaa006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Medical procedures and hospitalizations can be experienced as traumatic and can lead to post-traumatic stress reactions. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) shows promising results but very few long-term studies have been published. Therefore, our aim was to test the long-term (8 months post-treatment) effectiveness of EMDR in children and adolescents with medically related subthreshold post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHODS AND RESULTS Seventy-four children (including 39 with congenital or acquired heart disease) aged 4-15 (M = 9.6 years) with subthreshold PTSD after previous hospitalization were included into a parallel group randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomized to EMDR (n = 37) or care-as-usual (CAU) (n = 37; medical care only). The primary outcome was PTSD symptoms of the child. Secondary outcomes were symptoms of depression and blood-injection-injury (BII) phobia, sleep problems, and health-related quality of life (HrQoL) of the child. Assessments of all outcomes were planned at baseline and 8 weeks and 8 months after the start of EMDR/CAU. We hypothesized that the EMDR group would show significantly more improvements on all outcomes over time. Both groups showed improvements over time on child's symptoms of PTSD (only parent report), depression, BII phobia, sleep problems, and most HrQoL subscales. GEE analyses showed no significant differences between the EMDR group (nT2 = 33, nT3 = 30) and the CAU group (nT2 = 35, nT3 = 32) on the primary outcome. One superior effect of EMDR over time was found for reducing parent-reported BII phobia of the child. CONCLUSION EMDR did not perform better than CAU in reducing subthreshold PTSD up to 8 months post-treatment in previously hospitalized children. Possible explanations and clinical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya G Meentken
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Malindi van der Mheen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ingrid M van Beynum
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth W C Aendekerk
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen S Legerstee
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan van der Ende
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Riwka Del Canho
- Department of Pediatrics, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ramón J L Lindauer
- Academic Centre for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry the Bascule, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Manon H J Hillegers
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Willem A Helbing
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Radboud UMC-Amalia Children's Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Henriette A Moll
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth M W J Utens
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Academic Centre for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry the Bascule, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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16
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Lebeaut A, Leonard SJ, Healy N, Raines AM, Buser SJ, Vujanovic AA. Associations between Lower-Order Anxiety Sensitivity Facets and PTSD Symptomatology among Trauma-Exposed Firefighters. Behav Modif 2021; 46:294-320. [PMID: 34008431 DOI: 10.1177/01454455211016819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Firefighters are chronically exposed to potentially traumatic events, augmenting their risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The current study aimed to examine the incremental associations of lower-order dimensions of anxiety sensitivity (AS), examined concurrently, and PTSD symptom severity among a sample of trauma-exposed firefighters. We hypothesized that AS physical and cognitive concerns would be strongly associated with all PTSD symptom clusters and overall symptom severity, after controlling for theoretically relevant covariates (trauma load; years in fire service; alcohol use severity; depressive symptom severity). Participants were comprised of firefighters (N = 657) who completed an online questionnaire battery and endorsed PTSD Criterion A trauma exposure. Results revealed that the AS cognitive concerns, but not AS physical concerns, was significantly and robustly associated with overall PTSD symptom severity, intrusion symptoms, and negative alterations in cognitions and mood (∆R2's = .028-.042; p's < .01); AS social concerns was incrementally associated with PTSD avoidance (∆R2 = .03, p < .01). Implications for firefighter-informed, evidence-based interventions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Amanda M Raines
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA, USA
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17
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Smith ML, Farkas DK, Sumner JA, Valdimarsdóttir U, Lash TL, Sørensen HT, Gradus JL. Unspecified stress disorders and risk of arterial and venous thromboembolic disease in the Danish population. J Affect Disord 2021; 282:712-716. [PMID: 33445098 PMCID: PMC7889626 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.12.180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder is a well-documented risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Whether non-specific stress-related psychopathology also increases risk is less well known. METHODS In a cohort of adult Danish-born residents of Denmark with an incident diagnosis of unspecified reaction to severe stress ("unspecified stress reaction") between 1995 and 2011 (N = 24,534), we assessed incidence of seven arterial and venous cardiovascular events/conditions between 1996 and 2013. We calculated standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) comparing incidence of each outcome among the cohort to expected incidence based on sex-, age-, and calendar-time-specific national rates. We conducted stratified analyses by demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and length of follow-up time. RESULTS Incidence over the study period ranged from 1.1% for provoked VTE to 5.7% for stroke, adjusting for competing risk of death. Unspecified stress reaction was associated with all outcomes (SIRs ranging from 1.3, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1-1.4 for atrial fibrillation/flutter to 1.9, 95% CI: 1.7-2.2 for unprovoked VTE and 1.9, 95% CI: 1.6-2.3 for provoked VTE). Associations persisted, but were attenuated, when restricting to persons without alcohol use disorder and to persons without physical health comorbidities. LIMITATIONS Unspecified stress reaction has less precise criteria than other stress-related diagnoses, and we could not adjust for some potential confounders. CONCLUSIONS Our results augment literature on stress disorders and cardiovascular disease by highlighting the additional importance of unspecified stress disorders. Further research on this diagnostic category, which may represent subsyndromal psychopathology, is warranted. These findings support considering persons with non-specific stress-related psychopathology in treatment and tertiary prevention activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan L. Smith
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Jennifer A. Sumner
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Unnur Valdimarsdóttir
- Faculty of Medicine, Center of Public Health Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland,Department of Medical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Timothy L. Lash
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Henrik Toft Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jaimie L. Gradus
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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18
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Abstract
More than 21 million people globally are refugees. More than half of these (>10 million) are children, representing a highly vulnerable population. Most children experience high levels of trauma exposure, including war trauma, as well as substantial migration- and resettlement-related stress. These exposures confer risk for mental health problems, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but their relative contributions have not been fully explicated. These effects may be modulated by the developmental timing of trauma and stress exposure: childhood trauma and stress are broadly linked to worse health outcomes across the lifespan, but the developmental specificity of these effects remains uncertain. Refugee children typically experience the trauma leading up to displacement (e.g., civil war) which often lasts for decades, and for some, followed by resettlement. Longitudinal studies that follow children through this process can provide unique insight into how these experiences of trauma, displacement, and resettlement during development impact mechanisms of risk and resilience. They can also elucidate how environmental and physiological factors may modulate the effects of trauma and stress. The present study includes two groups of families (parents and their 7- to 17-year-old children): (1) Syrian and Iraqi refugee families who experienced war-zone trauma before resettling in the United States in ~2016, and (2) Arab immigrant families who did not experience war-zone trauma prior to resettlement in the United States in ~2016. We assessed symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD in refugee and immigrant children and parents. Skin conductance responses, a measure of autonomic response, saliva samples for genetic and epigenetic analyses, and information about social and environmental context, including family structure, resources, and neighborhood quality, were also collected. Refugee participants provided data at three time points spanning ~3 years following resettlement in the United States: Wave 1, within 1 month of resettlement, Wave 2, 12–24 months post resettlement, and Wave 3 planned for 24–36 months resettlement. Immigrant participants will provide data once, within 3–5 years after immigration, matching the age of Wave 1. This comparison group enables us to compare mental health and biomarkers between refugees and immigrants. Results of these comparative analyses will provide insight into the impact of war trauma versus other types of trauma and adversity on biomarkers of child mental health outcomes. Results from the longitudinal analyses will address refugee mental health trajectories over time, and, in children, across development. Initial data from Wave 1 showed high levels of anxiety in refugee children, as well as high levels of PTSD symptoms and anxiety in their parents. Together, results from these comparative and longitudinal analyses will provide insight into multiple aspects of trauma and stress exposure in refugees and immigrants, including how the developmental timing of trauma exposure impacts biomarkers and mental health across development. Our assessment of multiple factors affecting childhood mental health following trauma exposure, including familial, neighborhood and social context following resettlement may identify modifiable targets for interventions to support well-being in refugees.
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19
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Highfill-McRoy RM, Levine JA, Larson GE, Norman SJ, Schmied EA, Thomsen CJ. Predictors of Symptom Increase in Subsyndromal PTSD Among Previously Deployed Military Personnel. Mil Med 2021; 187:e711-e717. [PMID: 33580699 PMCID: PMC9071097 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usab034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Subsyndromal PTSD (sub-PTSD) is associated with functional impairment and increased risk for full PTSD. This study examined factors associated with progression from sub-PTSD to full PTSD symptomatology among previously deployed military veterans. Materials and Methods Data were drawn from a longitudinal survey of Navy and Marine Corps personnel leaving military service between 2007 and 2010 administered immediately before separation (baseline) and ~1 year later (follow-up). Survey measures assessed PTSD symptoms at both times; the baseline survey also assessed potential predictors of symptom change over time. Logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of progression from sub-PTSD to full PTSD status. Results Compared to those with no or few PTSD symptoms at baseline, individuals with sub-PTSD were almost three times more likely to exhibit full PTSD symptomatology at follow-up. Risk factors for symptom increase among those with sub-PTSD included moderate or high levels of combat exposure and utilization of fewer positive coping behaviors. Use of prescribed psychotropic medication was protective against symptom increase. Conclusion This study identified several predictors of symptom increase in military veterans with sub-PTSD. Interventions targeting modifiable risk factors for symptom escalation, including behavioral and pharmacological treatments, may reduce rates of new-onset PTSD in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn M Highfill-McRoy
- Leidos, San Diego, CA 92106-3521, USA.,Health and Behavioral Sciences Department, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA 92106-3521, USA
| | - Jordan A Levine
- Leidos, San Diego, CA 92106-3521, USA.,Health and Behavioral Sciences Department, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA 92106-3521, USA
| | - Gerald E Larson
- Health and Behavioral Sciences Department, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA 92106-3521, USA
| | - Sonya J Norman
- National Center for PTSD, 215 North Main St., White River Junction, VT 05009, USA.,VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA 92161-0002, USA.,UCSD School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093-0602, USA
| | | | - Cynthia J Thomsen
- Health and Behavioral Sciences Department, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA 92106-3521, USA
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20
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Carmassi C, Bertelloni CA, Dell'Oste V, Luperini C, Marazziti D, Rossi R, Dell'Osso L. PTSD and Suicidal Behaviors Amongst L'Aquila 2009 Earthquake Young Survivors. Front Public Health 2021; 9:590753. [PMID: 33643987 PMCID: PMC7902690 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.590753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most frequent and severe psychiatric consequences of natural disasters, frequently associated with suicidality. The aim of this study was at examining the possible relationships between suicidal behaviors and full-blown or partial PTSD, in a sample of young earthquake survivors. The second aim was at investigating the specific role of PTSD symptoms on suicidality. Methods: A total of 475 young adults who survived the L'Aquila 2009 earthquake, one of the most severe Italian disasters of the last decades, were recruited and assessed after 21 months from the catastrophe. Participants were evaluated by two questionnaires assessing subthreshold psychopathology, the Trauma and Loss Spectrum Self-Report (TALS-SR) to investigate both full and partial PTSD, and two specific Mood Spectrum Self-Report (MOODS-SR) sub-domains exploring suicidality, namely suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. Results: The ensuing findings showed that suicidal ideation and suicide attempts were present, respectively, in 40 (8.4%) and 11 (2.3%) survivors. Rates of suicidal ideation were significantly more elevated in full-blown PTSD subjects (group 1), as compared with those suffering from partial (group 2) or no PTSD (group 3). Interestingly, group 2 subjects showed significantly more suicidal ideation than healthy individuals, and less than those of group 1, while the frequency of suicide attempts was similar across the three groups. Suicidal ideation was associated with higher scores in the following TALS-SR domains: grief-reactions, re-experiencing, avoidance and numbing, maladaptive coping, and personal characteristics/risk factor. Conclusions: The results of the present study support and extend previous findings on the role of PTSD symptoms in suicidality after a severe earthquake. However, as compared with available literature, they also highlight the significant impact of sub-threshold PTSD manifestations in increasing the suicide risk in survivors of a mass disaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Carmassi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Carlo Antonio Bertelloni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Valerio Dell'Oste
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara Luperini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Donatella Marazziti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rodolfo Rossi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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21
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Dawson RL, Calear AL, McCallum SM, McKenna S, Nixon RDV, O'Kearney R. Exposure-Based Writing Therapies for Subthreshold and Clinical Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Trauma Stress 2021; 34:81-91. [PMID: 33043507 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
We undertook a systematic review to assess the efficacy of exposure-based writing therapies (WTs) for trauma-exposed adults with subthreshold or clinical levels of posttraumatic stress disorder. Four databases (PsycINFO, Medline, Wiley Online, PILOTS) were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of exposure-based WTs. A total of 13 RCTs that reported on results from 17 WT versus control comparisons were included. The primary outcomes were posttraumatic stress symptom severity at posttreatment and/or clinical response. An overall unclear or high risk of bias was identified in 84.6% of studies. In comparison to both waitlist k = 3, Hedges' g = -0.97, 95% CI [-1.20, -0.73], and placebo writing conditions, k = 9, Hedges' g = -0.48, 95% CI [-0.87, -0.08], WTs were more beneficial to participants. There was no evidence of a difference between WTs that were longer in duration compared to other psychotherapy, k = 2; pooled OR = 1.42; 95% CI [0.83, 2.43]. These findings indicate that exposure-based WTs are effective when compared to waitlist and placebo writing control conditions. The evidence needs to be considered in the context of the modest number of studies conducted to date, the high methodological heterogeneity between the studies, and the high or unclear risk of bias across many studies. Further research is needed to increase the evidence base regarding the efficacy of WTs for posttraumatic stress. Future research should also measure the mediators and predictors of outcomes to further develop protocols and understand which variants of WTs work for different populations or individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachelle L Dawson
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Alison L Calear
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Sonia M McCallum
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Sarah McKenna
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Reginald D V Nixon
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Richard O'Kearney
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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22
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Evaluating the Prevalence of PTSD among Children and Adolescents after Earthquakes and Floods: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Psychiatr Q 2020; 91:1265-1290. [PMID: 32901423 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-020-09840-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Our study systematically reviews articles about the prevalence of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among children and adolescents, aiming to evaluate its prevalence after earthquakes and floods.Three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for articles published from 1981 to 2019 containing information on PTSD prevalence among survivors of earthquakes and floods. Articles with insufficient data on the prevalence of PTSD or without any available full-text were excluded. Major study variables consist of the prevalence of PTSD of the included studies, gender, and the elapsed time after the disaster. The overall PTSD prevalence was determined using a fixed-effect model for eligible studies. Of 4107 studies listed using our search strategy, 439 underwent full-text review, 59 records included in the systematic review, and 39 records met the criteria for meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of PTSD among children and adolescent survivors after earthquakes and floods was 19.2% (95%CI = 18.6-19.7%), 30.0% (95%CI = 29.5-30.6%), 24.4% (95%CI = 23.4-25.4%) and 20.4% (95%CI = 19.1-21.7%), in the first, second, third and fourth six-month intervals after the disaster, respectively. Our analysis also revealed that PTSD was more prevalent among girls (p < 0.001). The absence of psychological support for affected areas considerably increases the risk of PTSD among survivors. Our results indicated that children and adolescents, especially girls, are more vulnerable and should be in top priority. The governments should refine their policies on post-disaster services and run early screening, immediate intervention, and ongoing monitoring for PTSD, as well as mental and emotional supports.
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23
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Smith TW, Deits-Lebehn C, Caska-Wallace CM, Renshaw KD, Uchino BN. Resting high frequency heart rate variability and PTSD symptomatology in Veterans: Effects of respiration, role in elevated heart rate, and extension to spouses. Biol Psychol 2020; 154:107928. [PMID: 32621850 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2020.107928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Heart rate variability (HRV) associated with parasympathetic activity (i.e., cardiac vagal tone) is reduced in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but possible confounding effects of respiration have not been studied sufficiently. Further, reduced parasympathetic inhibition might contribute to elevated heart rate (HR) in PTSD. Finally, reduced HRV in PTSD might extend to intimate partners, given their chronic stress exposure. In 65 couples (male Veterans, female partners), elevated PTSD symptomatology (n = 32; 28 met full DSM IV criteria, 4 fell slightly short) was documented by structured interview and self-reports. Baseline HR, high-frequency HRV (HF-HRV), cardiac pre-ejection period (PEP), and respiration rate and depth were measured via impedance cardiography. Veterans with PTSD symptoms displayed reduced lnHF-HRV, even when adjusting for respiration, but their partners did not. In mediational analyses, elevated resting HR in PTSD was accounted for by lnHF-HRV but not PEP. Results strengthen evidence regarding HF-HRV and elevated HR in PTSD.
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24
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Wallace D, Moss AS, Hodges S. Sub-syndromal PTSD: what is important to know in military personnel and veterans? Australas Psychiatry 2020; 28:254-256. [PMID: 31647319 DOI: 10.1177/1039856219881965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assist healthcare professionals in their management of military personnel and veterans by providing information on the importance of sub-syndromal PTSD. CONCLUSION Sub-syndromal PTSD occurs when persons experience many of the symptoms of PTSD, with some impairment, but do not meet full diagnostic criteria. Found to be associated with a range of mental health conditions including alcohol abuse, higher rates of suicidal ideas and delayed-onset PTSD, it should be seen as 'symptoms that are predictive of later disorder'. Patients with this condition need accurate assessment, trauma-focused therapy and follow-up to address the symptoms and, potentially, prevent development of PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan Wallace
- Psychiatrist, Australian Defence Force Centre for Mental Health, HMAS Penguin, Liverpool, NSW, and; Conjoint Senior Lecturer, School of Psychiatry, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew S Moss
- Psychologist, Australian Defence Force Centre for Mental Health, HMAS Penguin, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Samantha Hodges
- Clinical Psychologist, Defence Force School of Intelligence, Mosman, NSW, Australia
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25
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Kim JI, Oh S, Park H, Min B, Kim JH. The prevalence and clinical impairment of subthreshold PTSD using DSM-5 criteria in a national sample of Korean firefighters. Depress Anxiety 2020; 37:375-385. [PMID: 32017289 DOI: 10.1002/da.22998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Firefighters are at high risk for subthreshold and full-threshold posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to their frequent exposure to various traumatic events. Although individuals with subthreshold PTSD have increased impairment, often needing treatment, the rates of subthreshold PTSD in firefighters remain unknown. Moreover, there is currently no consensus regarding the definition of subthreshold PTSD. The purpose of this study was to investigate the rates and clinical impairment of subthreshold PTSD according to various definitions in a national sample of firefighters. METHODS A total of 45,698 Korean firefighters completed self-reported questionnaires to assess the severity of PTSD symptoms, suicidal behavior, depression, alcohol use problems, and PTS-related functional impairment. Six different definitions used in the literature were used to calculate the prevalence rate of subthreshold PTSD. Multivariable linear regression and analysis of variance were performed to identify the relationship of subthreshold PTSD with suicidal behavior, depression, alcohol use problems, and PTS-related functional impairment. RESULTS The rate of full-threshold PTSD was 2.63%, and the rate of subthreshold PTSD ranged from 1.79% to 17.98%. The individuals with subthreshold PTSD most commonly failed the D criteria, which included negative alterations in cognition and mood. Regardless of the definition used, subthreshold PTSD was found to be associated with increased suicidal behavior, depression, alcohol use problems, and functional impairment. CONCLUSIONS Subthreshold PTSD appears to be equal to or more frequent than full-threshold PTSD in Korean firefighters and associated with various negative clinical outcomes. Further effort to detect and treat subthreshold PTSD in firefighters may be essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna I Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Hanyang University Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sohee Oh
- Department of Biostatistics, Seoul Metropolitan Government, Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Heyeon Park
- Department of Public Health Medical Services, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Beomjun Min
- Department of Public Health Medical Services, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Hyun Kim
- Department of Public Health Medical Services, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
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26
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Homish GG, Hoopsick RA, Heavey SC, Homish DL, Cornelius JR. Drug use and hazardous drinking are associated with PTSD symptoms and symptom clusters in US Army Reserve/National Guard Soldiers. Am J Addict 2018; 28:22-28. [PMID: 30548523 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.12829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES There is strong evidence of the association between Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms and substance use. Previous work has found sex differences in these associations. With revisions to the DSM, it is important to understand how overall PTSD symptoms and the new symptom clusters relate to substance use among Reserve/Guard soldiers-a high risk group. METHODS Data are from the baseline assessment of Operation: SAFETY (Soldiers and Families Excelling Through the Years), a longitudinal study of US Army Reserve/National Guard (USAR/NG) soldiers (N = 389 males, N = 84 females). We examined associations between current substance use (drug use, hazardous drinking, and smoking) and overall PTSD symptoms, and symptom clusters. Additionally, we examined PTSD by sex interactions. RESULTS Greater overall PTSD symptoms were associated with higher odds of drug use (OR = 1.08; 95%CI: 1.05, 1.12) and hazardous drinking (OR = 1.04; 95%CI: 1.02, 1.07). Greater individual symptom cluster scores were associated with higher odds of drug use (ps < .001) and hazardous drinking (ps < .01). Interaction models revealed no differences in these associations on the basis sex (ps > .05). There were no associations between PTSD symptoms or symptom clusters on smoking (ps > .05). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Soldiers experiencing PTSD symptoms are reporting current drug and hazardous alcohol use, suggestive of self-medication. SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE It is imperative to consider the impact of PTSD on substance use broadly, as this work shows that overall symptoms and symptom clusters have an impact on male and female USAR/NG soldiers. (Am J Addict 2019;28:22-28).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory G Homish
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, State University of New York at Buffalo, 3435 Main Street, Buffalo 14214, New York.,Departments of Pediatrics and Family Medicine, State University of New York at Buffalo, 3435 Main Street, Buffalo 14214, New York
| | - Rachel A Hoopsick
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, State University of New York at Buffalo, 3435 Main Street, Buffalo 14214, New York
| | - Sarah Cercone Heavey
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, State University of New York at Buffalo, 3435 Main Street, Buffalo 14214, New York
| | - D Lynn Homish
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, State University of New York at Buffalo, 3435 Main Street, Buffalo 14214, New York
| | - Jack R Cornelius
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, 3811 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh 15213, Pennsylvania
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