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Kaur K, Asnaani A, Levy HC, Miller ML, Tolin DF, McLean CP. Moving beyond symptom reduction: A meta-analysis on the effect of exposure therapy for PTSD on quality of life. J Clin Psychol 2024. [PMID: 38875442 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23727] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Quality of life (QOL) is a multidimensional construct including emotional well-being, life satisfaction, and physical health. Individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) consistently report low QOL, highlighting the importance of assessing the effectiveness of first-line PTSD treatments (e.g., exposure-based therapies) on QOL. This meta-analysis examined the efficacy of exposure therapy for PTSD on QOL compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, medication, treatment-as-usual) at posttreatment and follow-up (ranging from 1 month to 2 years). METHODS Building on a previous meta-analysis of exposure-based therapy for PTSD, we searched PsycINFO and Medline in December 2021, July 2022, and March 2023 to include randomized controlled trials of exposure-based treatments for adult PTSD assessing QOL. We screened 295 abstracts for initial eligibility; 20 articles met inclusion criteria and were included (N = 2729 participants). Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2.0. RESULTS At posttreatment, exposure-based therapies showed a medium effect on QOL relative to control conditions (k = 25, g = 0.67). This effect was not observed at follow-up for the small subset of studies with follow-up data (k = 8, g = 0.16). At posttreatment, effect size varied significantly as a function of the control condition (p < .0001). There were no differences in QOL effects across exposure therapies at posttreatment or follow-up (p = .09). CONCLUSION Exposure therapy was associated with greater improvement in QOL compared to control conditions at posttreatment. Exposure was not superior to control conditions at follow-up, and the longer-term impact of exposure on QOL is unclear. The implications of these findings are discussed, along with the need for more PTSD treatment studies to examine QOL outcomes at posttreatment and follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Kaur
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Anu Asnaani
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Hannah C Levy
- Anxiety Disorders Center, The Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
| | - Madeleine L Miller
- National Center for PTSD, Dissemination and Training Division, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | - David F Tolin
- Anxiety Disorders Center, The Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Carmen P McLean
- National Center for PTSD, Dissemination and Training Division, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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Langeland W, Olff M. Sex and gender in psychotrauma research. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2358702. [PMID: 38872459 PMCID: PMC11182052 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2024.2358702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is two to three times more common in women than in men. To better understand this phenomenon, we need to know why men, women, and possibly individuals with other sex/gender identities respond differently to trauma. To stimulate sex and gender sensitive research, the European Journal of Psychotraumatology (EJPT) was the first journal to adopt a gender policy. In addition, a call for papers entitled Integrating and Evaluating Sex and Gender in Psychotrauma Research was announced.Objective: This special issue synthesizes the past five years of psychotrauma research with regard to sex/gender differences.Method: Seventy-seven articles were identified from EJPT archives, including five systematic reviews. These articles examined sex differences and/or gender differences in exposure to trauma, posttraumatic stress responses, or how sex and gender impacts (mental) health outcomes or treatment responses.Results: Findings from these studies outlined that: 1. sex and gender still need to be more clearly defined, also in relation to the context that codetermine trauma responses, like other 'diversity' variables; 2. in most studies, sex and gender are measured or reported as binary variables; 3. sex and gender are important variables when examining trauma exposure, responses to these events, symptoms trajectories, and mental and physical health outcomes across the life span; and 4. in PTSD treatment studies, including a meta-analysis and a systematic review, sex and gender were not significant predictors of treatment outcome.Conclusion: Future research must focus on sex and gender as important and distinct variables; they should include sex and gender in their statistical analyses plan to better clarify associations between these variables and (responses to) psychotrauma. To enhance reporting of comparable data across studies, we provide suggestions for future research, including how to assess sex and gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willemien Langeland
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Miranda Olff
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers Location AMC, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands
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3
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Loetscher KB, Goldfarb EV. Integrating and fragmenting memories under stress and alcohol. Neurobiol Stress 2024; 30:100615. [PMID: 38375503 PMCID: PMC10874731 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2024.100615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Stress can powerfully influence the way we form memories, particularly the extent to which they are integrated or situated within an underlying spatiotemporal and broader knowledge architecture. These different representations in turn have significant consequences for the way we use these memories to guide later behavior. Puzzlingly, although stress has historically been argued to promote fragmentation, leading to disjoint memory representations, more recent work suggests that stress can also facilitate memory binding and integration. Understanding the circumstances under which stress fosters integration will be key to resolving this discrepancy and unpacking the mechanisms by which stress can shape later behavior. Here, we examine memory integration at multiple levels: linking together the content of an individual experience, threading associations between related but distinct events, and binding an experience into a pre-existing schema or sense of causal structure. We discuss neural and cognitive mechanisms underlying each form of integration as well as findings regarding how stress, aversive learning, and negative affect can modulate each. In this analysis, we uncover that stress can indeed promote each level of integration. We also show how memory integration may apply to understanding effects of alcohol, highlighting extant clinical and preclinical findings and opportunities for further investigation. Finally, we consider the implications of integration and fragmentation for later memory-guided behavior, and the importance of understanding which type of memory representation is potentiated in order to design appropriate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth V. Goldfarb
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, USA
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, USA
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, USA
- National Center for PTSD, West Haven VA, USA
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4
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Miles LW, Valentine JL, Mabey LJ, Hopkins ES, Stodtmeister PJ, Rockwood RB, Moxley ANH. A Systematic Review of Evidence-Based Treatments for Adolescent and Adult Sexual Assault Victims. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc 2024; 30:480-502. [PMID: 38148646 PMCID: PMC11138126 DOI: 10.1177/10783903231216138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual assault (SA) is a serious crime that is a prevalent mental and public health problem. AIMS Addressing the needs of SA victims and providing appropriate treatment are essential to reduce potential adverse short- and long-term outcomes. METHODS Our team undertook an extensive systematic literature review (published between January 2006 and July 2021) to provide evidence-based mental health intervention recommendations for adolescent and adult victims of SA. Where SA-specific research was limited, the literature and clinical practice guidelines on treatments for trauma-induced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were reviewed to provide additional information to formulate recommendations. RESULTS Findings strongly support several primary psychotherapy treatments: cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, narrative exposure therapy, and prolonged exposure therapy. Complementary (aerobic exercise, art, drama, and music therapy) and pharmacological treatments were explored. CONCLUSIONS Mental health nurses who provide services for victims of SA can utilize this overview to guide recommendations for treatment of SA trauma and related PTSD symptoms to mitigate the short- and long-term negative impacts after a traumatic event. When victims of SA receive optimal mental health treatments, our communities benefit as victims heal and recover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie W. Miles
- Leslie W. Miles, DNP, PMHNP-BC, Brigham Young University College of Nursing, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Julie L. Valentine
- Julie L. Valentine, PhD, RN, SANE-A, FAAN, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Linda J. Mabey
- Linda J. Mabey, DNP, PMHCNS-BC, Brigham Young University College of Nursing, Provo, UT, USA
| | | | - Paige J. Stodtmeister
- Paige J. Stodtmeister, DNP, PMHNP-BC Brigham Young University College of Nursing, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Reilly B. Rockwood
- Reilly B. Rockwood, DNP, PMHNP-BC, Brigham Young University College of Nursing, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Alyssa N. H. Moxley
- Alyssa N. H. Moxley, DNP, CNM, WHNP-BC, Brigham Young University College of Nursing, Provo, UT, USA
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5
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Yoshikawa M, Narita Z, Kim Y. Digital health-based exposure therapies for patients with posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. J Trauma Stress 2024. [PMID: 38637958 DOI: 10.1002/jts.23052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Although exposure therapies have established effects in treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), these therapies might be hindered by issues of cost, distance, time, and human resources, which are potentially alleviated by digital health. Despite the potential of digital health, there is currently no systematic review specifically evaluating digital health-based exposure therapies. We aimed to conduct a systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the impact of digital health-based exposure therapies in treating patients with PTSD. A literature search was conducted from December 31, 2023, to February 22, 2024, using the PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases. A total of 12 RCTs with 1,361 participants were included in the systematic review. These RCTs were conducted mainly in the United States and primarily enrolled military samples. Overall, the utility of digital health-based exposure therapies appeared plausible and comparable to that of in-person therapies. The dropout rate was counterintuitively high, potentially due to technological issues and the absence of personal connections. The findings suggest that digital health-based exposure therapies may potentially resolve the issues of cost, distance, time, and human resources in the treatment of patients with PTSD. Future RCTs should employ larger sample sizes. Addressing technological challenges and the absence of personal connection may be important in resolving the high dropout rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayu Yoshikawa
- Department of Psychiatry, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Zui Narita
- Department of Psychiatry, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiharu Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
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Gossmann E, Erlewein K, Hiller T, Mayer P, Sachser C, Clemens V, Fegert JM. The impact of abduction and hostage-taking on the mental health of children and adolescents: a scoping review. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:1217-1226. [PMID: 38265674 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-023-02362-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Gossmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany.
- Competence Area Mental Health Prevention in the Competence Network Preventive Medicine Baden-Württemberg, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany.
| | - Katrin Erlewein
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany
- Competence Area Mental Health Prevention in the Competence Network Preventive Medicine Baden-Württemberg, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany
| | - Therese Hiller
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany
- Competence Area Mental Health Prevention in the Competence Network Preventive Medicine Baden-Württemberg, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany
| | - Patricia Mayer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany
- Competence Area Mental Health Prevention in the Competence Network Preventive Medicine Baden-Württemberg, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany
| | - Cedric Sachser
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany
| | - Vera Clemens
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jörg M Fegert
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany
- Competence Area Mental Health Prevention in the Competence Network Preventive Medicine Baden-Württemberg, Ulm University, Steinhövelstrasse 5, 89073, Ulm, Germany
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Vegt N, Visch V, Spooren W, van Rossum EFC, Evers AWM, van Boeijen A. Erasing stigmas through storytelling: why interactive storytelling environments could reduce health-related stigmas. DESIGN FOR HEALTH (ABINGDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 8:46-77. [PMID: 38746072 PMCID: PMC11093225 DOI: 10.1080/24735132.2024.2306771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
In this article we describe how designers can apply storytelling to reduce health-related stigmas. Stigma is a pervasive problem for people with illnesses, such as obesity, and it can persistently hinder coping, treatment, recovery, and prevention. Reducing health-related stigma is complex because it is multi-layered and self-perpetuating, leading to intertwined vicious circles. Interactive storytelling environments can break these vicious circles by delimiting the narrative freedom of stigma actors. We theoretically explain the potential of interactive storytelling environments to reduce stigma through the following seven functions: 1) expose participants to other perspectives, 2) provide a protective frame, 3) intervene in daily conversations, 4) persuade all stigma actors, 5) exchange alternative understandings, 6) elicit understanding and support for stigma victims, and 7) support stigma victims to cope with stigmatization. We elaborate on these functions through a demonstration of an interactive storytelling environment against weight stigma. In conclusion, this article is a call on designers for health and wellbeing, scientists, and practitioners from various disciplines to be sensitive to the pervasiveness of stigma and to collaboratively create destigmatizing storytelling environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niko Vegt
- Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Valentijn Visch
- Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Wilbert Spooren
- Faculty of Arts, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth F. C. van Rossum
- Obesity Center CGG, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea W. M. Evers
- Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Social and Behavioral Science Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Faculty of ESHPM, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annemiek van Boeijen
- Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
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8
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Dickins KA. Improving Traumatic Stress with Justice-Impacted Women and Women Experiencing Homelessness: A Pilot Study of Narrative Exposure Therapy. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2024; 45:121-141. [PMID: 37616593 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2023.2238091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to investigate the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of a brief, manualized trauma-focused intervention aimed at improving PTSD symptoms in persons with complex PTSD, Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET). DESIGN Using a mixed methods approach, we tested the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of NET in a sample of trauma-affected women in traumatogenic circumstances: justice-impacted women in prison and women experiencing homelessness in a shelter. We quantitatively assessed data using a single sample, pre-/post-intervention design. We qualitatively assessed self-described symptom change and opportunities for intervention adaptation using a content analysis approach. METHODS Sixteen trauma-affected participants completed the intervention protocol. NET interventionists included one nurse practitioner, one registered nurse, and one nursing student. All NET participants attended pre-/post-intervention visits and active NET sessions. In-depth interviews were conducted at pre- and post-intervention, alongside a diagnostic battery. RESULTS NET was both highly feasible and acceptable among participants. Participants significantly improved on the intervention-specific outcome of PTSD symptoms, as well as somatic symptom burden, with large effect sizes. Participants also improved on subjective self-described symptom change. Participants offered recommendations regarding opportunities to enhance population-specific intervention acceptability. CONCLUSIONS Results from this pilot study are consistent with previous evidence demonstrating that NET facilitates improvements in women with traumatic stress. Findings of high feasibility, acceptability, and impact supports the use of NET in JW and WEH. Integrating participant recommendations to optimize acceptability may further support scalability and reach of NET. Replication with a larger sample and within a randomized controlled design is required to definitively determine effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten A Dickins
- Department of Community, System and Mental Health Nursing, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Zaretsky TG, Jagodnik KM, Barsic R, Antonio JH, Bonanno PA, MacLeod C, Pierce C, Carney H, Morrison MT, Saylor C, Danias G, Lepow L, Yehuda R. The Psychedelic Future of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:636-735. [PMID: 38284341 PMCID: PMC10845102 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x22666231027111147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur following exposure to a traumatic experience. An estimated 12 million U.S. adults are presently affected by this disorder. Current treatments include psychological therapies (e.g., exposure-based interventions) and pharmacological treatments (e.g., selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)). However, a significant proportion of patients receiving standard-of-care therapies for PTSD remain symptomatic, and new approaches for this and other trauma-related mental health conditions are greatly needed. Psychedelic compounds that alter cognition, perception, and mood are currently being examined for their efficacy in treating PTSD despite their current status as Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)- scheduled substances. Initial clinical trials have demonstrated the potential value of psychedelicassisted therapy to treat PTSD and other psychiatric disorders. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the state of the science of PTSD clinical care, including current treatments and their shortcomings. We review clinical studies of psychedelic interventions to treat PTSD, trauma-related disorders, and common comorbidities. The classic psychedelics psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and DMT-containing ayahuasca, as well as the entactogen 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and the dissociative anesthetic ketamine, are reviewed. For each drug, we present the history of use, psychological and somatic effects, pharmacology, and safety profile. The rationale and proposed mechanisms for use in treating PTSD and traumarelated disorders are discussed. This review concludes with an in-depth consideration of future directions for the psychiatric applications of psychedelics to maximize therapeutic benefit and minimize risk in individuals and communities impacted by trauma-related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Glatman Zaretsky
- James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kathleen M. Jagodnik
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert Barsic
- James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Josimar Hernandez Antonio
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Philip A. Bonanno
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carolyn MacLeod
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Charlotte Pierce
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hunter Carney
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Morgan T. Morrison
- James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Charles Saylor
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - George Danias
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lauren Lepow
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachel Yehuda
- James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- The Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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10
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Nanduri A, Vasquez M, Veluri SC, Ranjbar N. Scoping Review of PTSD Treatments for Natural Disaster Survivors. Health Psychol Res 2023; 11:89642. [PMID: 38089640 PMCID: PMC10712555 DOI: 10.52965/001c.89642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This scoping review explores the current research on PTSD interventions for Natural Disaster survivors. It includes fourteen randomized control trials (RCTs). The included interventions were, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, herbal supplements, CBT, yoga, narrative exposure therapy, acupuncture stimulation, web-based interventions, and a multimodal art and meditation program. CBT is considered the standard of care for general PTSD treatment and was also found to be effective for the treatment of natural disaster-related PTSD symptoms. However, higher-level clinical evidence is needed. There are inconsistencies with the use of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and herbal supplements, while there is insufficient clinical evidence to effectively determine the efficacy of yoga, acupuncture, art, and narrative exposure therapies. Factors like the availability of resources, cultural sensitivity, and values and preferences impact the effectiveness of interventions used to treat PTSD in natural disaster survivors. Clinical studies in this field need to be further expanded regardless of the study type.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Noshene Ranjbar
- UCF
- Pyschiatry Residency University of Central Florida
- Internal Medicine Residency UCF
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11
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Smaik N, Simmons LA, Abdulhaq B, Dardas LA. The feasibility and preliminary efficacy of narrative exposure therapy on post-traumatic stress disorder among Syrian refugees in Jordan. Int J Nurs Sci 2023; 10:518-526. [PMID: 38020837 PMCID: PMC10667293 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnss.2023.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common mental health disorders among refugees, and all require immediate mental health support to prevent short- and long-term detrimental health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of narrative exposure therapy (NET) in reducing symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety among Syrian refugees residing in Jordan. Methods A two-arm randomized control trial was utilized. A total of 40 Syrian refugees aged 18 to 64 diagnosed with PTSD were randomly allocated to either the NET intervention group (n = 20) or the waitlist control group (n = 20) using a computer-generated allocation list with 1:1 allocation. PTSD symptoms were evaluated using the Arabic rendition of the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, while depression and anxiety symptoms were appraised using the Arabic adaptation of the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-25. Descriptive statistics were employed to characterize the sample and survey data. Independent t-tests were conducted to assess mean score differences in PTSD, anxiety, and depression between the intervention and control groups. Results Post NET intervention, significant reductions in PTSD (t = -10.00, P < 0.001), anxiety (t = -9.46, P < 0.001), and depression (t = -6.00, P < 0.001) scores were observed in the intervention group compared to the control group. Effect sizes were moderate for the trauma (Cohen's d = 0.73) and depression (Cohen's d = 0.79) symptoms and notably large for anxiety symptoms (Cohen's d = 0.97). There were no adverse events related to study participation. The intervention achieved a 100% participant retention rate. Conclusions The results pertaining to retention rate, adherence to the study protocol, data completeness, cultural congruence, and participants' satisfaction provided strong support for the future implementation of the full-scale RCT. NET may be a feasible and helpful approach for refugees and other patients with PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadeen Smaik
- School of Nursing, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Leigh Ann Simmons
- The Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, UC Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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12
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Yunitri N, Chu H, Kang XL, Wiratama BS, Lee TY, Chang LF, Liu D, Kustanti CY, Chiang KJ, Chen R, Tseng P, Chou KR. Comparative effectiveness of psychotherapies in adults with posttraumatic stress disorder: a network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Psychol Med 2023; 53:6376-6388. [PMID: 36628572 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722003737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence on the long-term comparative effectiveness of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) psychotherapies in adults remains unknown. Therefore, we performed an extensive network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to determine the comparative effectiveness of psychotherapies for people diagnosed with PTSD. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted in Cochrane library, Embase, Medline-OVID, PubMed, Scopus, and Psych-Info until March 2021. Studies on the effectiveness of cognitive processing therapy (CPT), cognitive therapy (CT), eye movement desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR), narrative exposure therapy (NET), prolonged exposure (PE), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), present-centred therapy (PCT), brief eclectic psychotherapies (BEP), psychodynamic therapy (PDT) or combination therapies compared to no treatment (NT) or treatment as usual (TAU) in adults with PTSD were included. Frequentist and Bayesian approaches were used for analysis in R-software. RESULTS We included 98 RCTs with 5567 participants from 18 897 studies. CPT, EMDR, CT, NET, PE, CBT, and PCT were significant to reduce PTSD symptoms (SMD range: -1.53 to -0.75; Certainty: very low to high) at immediate post-treatment and ranked accordingly. Longitudinal analysis found EMDR (1.02) and CPT (0.85) as the significant therapies with large effect size in short-term and long-term follow-up, respectively. NET and CPT showed higher proportion of loss of PTSD diagnosis (RR range: 5.51-3.45) while there were no significant psychotherapies for retention rate compared to NT. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide evidence for improving current guidelines and informing clinical decision-making for PTSD management. However, the best PTSD treatment plan should be tailored to patients' needs, characteristics, and clinician expertise. REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42020162143.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ninik Yunitri
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Hsin Chu
- Institute of Aerospace and Undersea Medicine, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Neurology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Xiao Linda Kang
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Bayu Satria Wiratama
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Population Health, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Tso-Ying Lee
- Nursing Research Center, Department of Nursing, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Fang Chang
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Education & Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Nursing, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Doresses Liu
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Center for Nursing and Healthcare Research in Clinical Practice Application, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Christina Yeni Kustanti
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan Bethesda Yakkum Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Kai-Jo Chiang
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Nursing, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ruey Chen
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan
- Post-Baccalaureate Program in Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Philip Tseng
- Graduate Institute of Mind, Brain and Consciousness, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Brain and Consciousness Research Center, TMU - Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan
- Research Center for Mind, Brain & Learning, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuei-Ru Chou
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Center for Nursing and Healthcare Research in Clinical Practice Application, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan
- Psychiatric Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Neuroscience Research Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Raeder R, Clayton NS, Boeckle M. Narrative-based autobiographical memory interventions for PTSD: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1215225. [PMID: 37829075 PMCID: PMC10565228 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1215225] [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] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the efficacy of narrative-based interventions (NBIs) for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Investigating the efficacy of NBIs should yield insight on autobiographical memory (AM) phenomena implicated in PTSD onset and recovery, leading to improved intervention protocols. Furthermore, by analyzing how NBIs influence maladaptive AM distortions, we hope to shed light on the theorized narrative architecture of AM more generally. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted according to PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, and PubMed. Additional studies were then also identified from the reference lists of other relevant literature and considered for inclusion. Studies were then evaluated for adherence to the inclusion/exclusion criteria and assessed for risk of bias. Various meta-analyses were performed on included studies to understand how NBIs may or may not influence the overall effect size of treatment. Results The results of the meta-analysis of 35 studies, involving 2,596 participants, suggest that NBIs are a viable and effective treatment option for PTSD, yielding a statistically significant within-group effect size and decrease in PTSD symptomatology at both post-treatment [g = 1.73, 95% CI (1.23-2.22)] and 3-9 month follow-up assessments [g = 2.33, 95% CI (1.41-3.26)]. Furthermore, the difference in effect sizes between NBIs compared to active and waitlist controls was statistically significant, suggesting that NBIs are superior. Sub-analyses showed that NET provided a stronger effect size than FORNET, which may be due to the nature of the traumatic event itself and not the treatment protocol. While evidence of small study and publication bias was present, a weight-function model and trim-and-fill method suggested it was not influencing the overall results. Discussion This meta-analysis presents strong evidence supporting the use of NBIs in the treatment of PTSD. Clear similarities can be identified between NBIs included in this analysis that make them distinct from non-NBI interventions, which are reviewed in the discussion. Controlled comparisons between NBIs and non-NBIs would help to further understand AM mechanisms of action implicated in recovery and how various interventions facilitate them. Future research should also aim to elucidate the full range of AM impairment in individuals with PTSD to gain insight on how other memory capabilities, such as the ability to mentally simulate the future, are implicated in the pathogenesis of PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Raeder
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola S. Clayton
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Markus Boeckle
- Scientific Working Group, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
- Department of Transitory Psychiatry, University Hospital Tulln, Tulln, Austria
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14
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Olthuis JV, Kaltenbach E, Giberson E, Saryeddine T, Asmundson GJG, Carleton RN, Cramm H, Crombach A, Devlin J, Mack J, Lingley-Pottie P, Rao S, Sullivan M, Wozney L, McGrath PJ. Paraprofessional delivery of online narrative exposure therapy for firefighters. J Trauma Stress 2023; 36:772-784. [PMID: 37291963 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22941] [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: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are at increased risk for developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and face numerous barriers to accessing mental health care. Innovative ways to increase access to evidence-based interventions are needed. This study was a case series testing the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness of a paraprofessional-delivered, virtual narrative exposure therapy (eNET) intervention for PTSD. Participants were 21 firefighters who met the criteria for clinical or subclinical probable PTSD and completed 10-12 sessions of eNET via videoconference. Participants completed self-report measures pre- and postintervention and at 2- and 6-month follow-ups as well as a postintervention qualitative interview. Paired samples t tests evidenced statistically significant decreases in PTSD, anxiety, and depressive symptom severity and functional impairment from pre- to postintervention, ds = 1.08-1.33, and in PTSD and anxiety symptom severity and functional impairment from preintervention to 6-month follow-up, ds = 0.69-1.10. The average PTSD symptom severity score fell from above to below the clinical cutoff for probable PTSD at postintervention and follow-ups. Qualitative interviews indicated that paraprofessionals were considered central to participants' success and experience with the intervention. No adverse events or safety concerns were raised. This study is an important step in demonstrating that appropriately trained and supervised paraprofessionals can effectively deliver eNET to firefighters with PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine V Olthuis
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | | | - Emma Giberson
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Tina Saryeddine
- Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Telfer School of Management, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - R Nicholas Carleton
- Department of Psychology, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Heidi Cramm
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Department of Psychology, Universität des Saarlandes, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Julie Devlin
- Conservation and Protection, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeff Mack
- Fredericton Fire Department, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Patricia Lingley-Pottie
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Sanjay Rao
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Michael Sullivan
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Lori Wozney
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Patrick J McGrath
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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15
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Brewerton TD. The integrated treatment of eating disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, and psychiatric comorbidity: a commentary on the evolution of principles and guidelines. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1149433. [PMID: 37252137 PMCID: PMC10213703 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1149433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric comorbidity is the norm in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders (EDs), and traumatic events and lifetime PTSD are often major drivers of these challenging complexities. Given that trauma, PTSD, and psychiatric comorbidity significantly influence ED outcomes, it is imperative that these problems be appropriately addressed in ED practice guidelines. The presence of associated psychiatric comorbidity is noted in some but not all sets of existing guidelines, but they mostly do little to address the problem other than referring to independent guidelines for other disorders. This disconnect perpetuates a "silo effect," in which each set of guidelines do not address the complexity of the other comorbidities. Although there are several published practice guidelines for the treatment of EDs, and likewise, there are several published practice guidelines for the treatment of PTSD, none of them specifically address ED + PTSD. The result is a lack of integration between ED and PTSD treatment providers, which often leads to fragmented, incomplete, uncoordinated and ineffective care of severely ill patients with ED + PTSD. This situation can inadvertently promote chronicity and multimorbidity and may be particularly relevant for patients treated in higher levels of care, where prevalence rates of concurrent PTSD reach as high as 50% with many more having subthreshold PTSD. Although there has been some progress in the recognition and treatment of ED + PTSD, recommendations for treating this common comorbidity remain undeveloped, particularly when there are other co-occurring psychiatric disorders, such as mood, anxiety, dissociative, substance use, impulse control, obsessive-compulsive, attention-deficit hyperactivity, and personality disorders, all of which may also be trauma-related. In this commentary, guidelines for assessing and treating patients with ED + PTSD and related comorbidity are critically reviewed. An integrated set of principles used in treatment planning of PTSD and trauma-related disorders is recommended in the context of intensive ED therapy. These principles and strategies are borrowed from several relevant evidence-based approaches. Evidence suggests that continuing with traditional single-disorder focused, sequential treatment models that do not prioritize integrated, trauma-focused treatment approaches are short-sighted and often inadvertently perpetuate this dangerous multimorbidity. Future ED practice guidelines would do well to address concurrent illness in more depth.
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16
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Goodman G, Blum B, Rentrop C, Malberg N, Agrawal P. The Efficacy of Two Group Interventions on Mental Representations, Attachment Security, and Trauma Symptoms in Ethnically and Socioeconomically Minoritized Young Adolescents in an Urban Middle School. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20105789. [PMID: 37239519 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Symptoms resulting from childhood trauma can negatively impact socioemotional well-being and school performance during early adolescence unless positive changes in attachment security and mental representations of significant relationships occur. A sample of 109 eighth grade urban students were randomly assigned to one of two weekly, one-hour, school-based group interventions-Storytelling/Story-Acting for Adolescents (STSA-A) or Mentalization-Based Treatment Group Intervention (MBT-G). The Object Relations Inventory (ORI), Adolescent Attachment Questionnaire (AAQ) and Child PSTD Stress Scale (CPSS) were administered to students and their primary group leaders at the beginning (October) and end (May) of the intervention protocol as outcome variables. Participants in both the STSA-A and MBT-G intervention conditions experienced significant increases in attachment security and decreases in trauma symptoms. Over the course of eight months of group intervention, affective valence of paternal mental representations significantly decreased for boys and for participants in the STSA-A condition, while affective valence of primary group leader mental representations significantly decreased for participants in the MBT-G condition. STSA-A and MBT-G were found to be efficacious at improving attachment security and reducing trauma symptoms in young adolescents. The strengths of each group intervention for addressing interpersonal issues unique to specific types of adolescents are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoff Goodman
- Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Bryan Blum
- Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program, Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
| | - Carla Rentrop
- Institute for Psychoanalytic Training and Research, New York, NY 10128, USA
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17
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Lee AT, Chin P, Nambiar A, Hill Haskins N. Addressing intergenerational trauma in Black families: Trauma-informed socioculturally attuned family therapy. JOURNAL OF MARITAL AND FAMILY THERAPY 2023; 49:447-462. [PMID: 36682070 DOI: 10.1111/jmft.12632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Increased attention to the prevalence and impact of traumatic experiences have been highlighted within the mental health field since Felitti et al.'s study of adverse childhood experiences. Black communities experience traumatic events at a higher rate than other racial groups. The phenomena of historical trauma, race-based trauma, and intergenerational trauma have been speculated to be reasons for this discrepancy. In this article, the authors explore factors that compound the traumatic experiences of Black communities, review socioculturally attuned family therapy and trauma-informed care, and propose an approach to addressing intergenerational trauma in Black families that integrates socioculturally attuned family therapy and trauma-informed care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiesha T Lee
- Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Philippa Chin
- Department of School Psychology and Counselor Education, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Aishwarya Nambiar
- Department of School Psychology and Counselor Education, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Natoya Hill Haskins
- Department of Human Services, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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18
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Onofrj M, Ajdinaj P, Digiovanni A, Malek N, Martinotti G, Ferro FM, Russo M, Thomas A, Sensi SL. Functional Neurologic Disorders, disorders to be managed by neurologists, or are neurologists wandering in a dangerous field with inadequate resources? Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1120981. [PMID: 37009111 PMCID: PMC10064068 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1120981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, some neurologists reconsidered their approach to Medically Unexplained Symptoms and proposed Functional Neurologic Disorders (FND) as a new entity, claiming that neurology could offer alternative treatment options to the psychotherapies provided in psychiatry settings. FNDs, for this purpose, should include only the disorders listed as Conversion from the Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders (SSRD) group. The present review analyzes the rationale of this position and challenges the arguments provided for its support. The review also discusses the systematization of these disorders as provided by public health systems. It outlines risks stemming from economic support and public funding uncertainty, given their negligible epidemiological dimensions resulting from the parcellation of SSRD. The review underlines the unresolved issue of Factitious Disorders, which are in the same SSRD category of the international classification but are, nonetheless, overlooked by the theoretical proponents of the FND entity. Comorbidity with other psychiatric disorders is also analyzed. We propose a model that supports the continuum between different SSRD conditions, including Factitious Disorders. The model is based on the emergence of feigned death reflex and deception from frontal lobe dysfunction. Finally, the paper summarizes the wealth of historical psychiatric and psychodynamic approaches and critical reviews. The study also puts in context the categorization and interpretation efforts provided by the most eminent researchers of the past century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Onofrj
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- *Correspondence: Marco Onofrj,
| | - Paola Ajdinaj
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Anna Digiovanni
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Naveed Malek
- Barking, Havering, and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Filippo Maria Ferro
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Mirella Russo
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Astrid Thomas
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Stefano Luca Sensi
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. D'Annunzio University” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
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19
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Julian JM, Held JI, Hixson K, Conn BM. The Implementation of Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) for Transgender and Gender Diverse Adolescents and Young Adults. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2023:1-10. [PMID: 37359461 PMCID: PMC10009357 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-023-00530-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose There is limited information available regarding the use of trauma modalities within the transgender and gender diverse community (TGD) to address gender-based trauma, including discrimination and invalidation, particularly for adolescents and young adults (AYA). The purpose of this paper is to describe a novel treatment approach to addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms within TGD AYA, inclusive of gender-based trauma. Methods Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) was implemented as a brief intervention for TGD AYA who had a positive screening for PTSD symptomatology. Measures were used to assess PTSD symptoms, as well as changes in self-perceived resilience and positive well-being. Two case vignettes are provided to demonstrate the adaptations made to be responsive to the unique needs of TGD AYA for trauma processing. Results Preliminary outcomes from two case studies indicate the strength of NET when working with TGD AYA who face multiple traumatic events and continue to experience invalidation. Conclusion NET shows promise as an effective brief intervention to reduce PTSD symptomology and increase resiliency in TGD AYA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie M. Julian
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Jordan I. Held
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | | | - Bridgid M. Conn
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
- Division of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
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20
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The treatment of PTSD in refugees and asylum seekers using imagery rescripting within an NHS setting. Behav Cogn Psychother 2023; 51:119-132. [PMID: 36537014 DOI: 10.1017/s1352465822000650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Refugees and asylum seekers present with high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), whilst little research has been conducted to assess the effectiveness or acceptability of psychological interventions for this group. Imagery rescripting is effective in reducing distressing intrusive memories within a range of conditions. The current study evaluates this approach for the treatment of PTSD in refugees and asylum seekers within a UK NHS service. AIMS To evaluate the clinical outcomes of using imagery rescripting for the treatment of PTSD in UK-based refugees and asylum seekers. METHOD Ten adult service-users from an NHS specialist service with a primary diagnosis of PTSD were recruited as part of routine service delivery. A multiple baseline design was used with participants randomly allocated to a baseline varying from 5 to 9 weeks. A baseline wait-period was followed by up to five sessions of psychoeducation and treatment preparation, in turn followed by up to 10 sessions of imagery rescripting. The Post-traumatic Symptom Scale (PSS) and Physical Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were collected every week during baseline, at end of treatment and weekly for 5 weeks after treatment, and again at 12-week follow-up. Data were analysed with mixed regression. RESULTS Results indicate a significant improvement both in PTSD symptoms and mood, and that this was attributable to the imagery rescripting phase of the intervention, and not the passage of time or non-specific therapy factors. CONCLUSIONS Evidence indicates imagery rescripting to be a safe and effective treatment choice for PTSD in refugees and asylum seekers.
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21
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Kip A, Iseke LN, Papola D, Gastaldon C, Barbui C, Morina N. Efficacy of psychological interventions for PTSD in distinct populations - An evidence map of meta-analyses using the umbrella review methodology. Clin Psychol Rev 2023; 100:102239. [PMID: 36529109 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2022.102239] [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: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We aimed at mapping the meta-analytic evidence base on the efficacy of psychological treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in specific populations. We conducted a systematic search until January 2022 in MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PTSDpubs, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews for meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials. We contrasted all eligible meta-analyses irrespective of overlapping datasets to present a comprehensive overview of the state of research. Reporting quality was assessed using the AMSTAR 2 tool and certainty of evidence was assessed using established umbrella review criteria. Nine meta-analyses with distinct adult populations (51 unique trials) and four with children and adolescents (24 unique trials) were included. Reporting quality of meta-analyses was heterogeneous with risk of bias assessment being rated lowest. The certainty of evidence on the efficacy of psychological interventions for adult populations was thoroughly weak because of small samples and large heterogeneity. In war- and conflict-affected youth, the certainty of evidence was suggestive. Our review highlights the need to improve quality of meta-analyses on treatment efficacy for PTSD. More importantly, however, the findings demonstrate the need for new large-scale trials on the efficacy of treatments for PTSD in distinct populations in order to increase certainty of evidence and to identify potential differences in treatment responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahlke Kip
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Linnéa N Iseke
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Davide Papola
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Gastaldon
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Nexhmedin Morina
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
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22
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Dix J, Fornells-Ambrojo M. Therapists' experience of the lifeline in narrative exposure therapy. J Trauma Stress 2023; 36:106-116. [PMID: 36268722 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the therapist experience of delivering the lifeline component of narrative exposure therapy (NET), an intervention for individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder resulting from exposure to multiple traumatic events. The lifeline in NET involves constructing a chronological representation of the client's life using physical symbols to depict traumatic events as well as positive experiences. A semistructured interview was conducted with 16 therapists experienced in delivering the lifeline component of NET to adult clients. The data from these interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Five overarching domains were identified, each encapsulating three themes. The first domain pertains to the overlapping purposes of the lifeline, united by the vital function of developing the therapeutic relationship. The second domain describes the value and potential therapeutic mechanisms of the lifeline's "whole life" perspective. The third domain speaks to the intensely emotional nature of the lifeline process and some of the challenges this presents. The fourth domain relates to the physicality of the lifeline and the value this adds beyond a purely verbal method. The final domain encompasses several challenges described by therapists as well as potential areas for further development. This study provides a rich account of the novel lifeline component in NET. The findings provide direction for refinement of clinical practice and avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayde Dix
- Department of Clinical, Educational, and Health Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,North East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Miriam Fornells-Ambrojo
- Department of Clinical, Educational, and Health Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,North East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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23
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Fleming WH. The Moral Injury Experience Wheel: An Instrument for Identifying Moral Emotions and Conceptualizing the Mechanisms of Moral Injury. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023; 62:194-227. [PMID: 36224299 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-022-01676-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This paper introduces an infographic tool called The Moral Injury Experience Wheel, designed to help users accurately label moral emotions and conceptualize the mechanisms of moral injury (MI). Feeling wheels have been used by therapists and clinical chaplains to increase emotional literacy since the 1980s. The literature on the skill of emotion differentiation shows a causal relationship between identifying emotions with specificity and emotional and behavioral regulation. Emerging research in moral psychology indicates that differentiating moral emotions with precision is related to similar regulatory effects. Based on this evidence, it is proposed that increasing moral emotional awareness through use of an instrument that visually depicts moral emotions and their causal links to MI will enhance appraisal and flexible thinking skills recognized to reduce the persistent dissonance and maladaptive coping related to MI. Design of the wheel is empirically grounded in MI definitional and scale studies. Iterative evaluative feedback from Veterans with features of MI offers initial qualitative evidence of validity. Two case studies will show utility of the wheel in clinical settings and present preliminary evidence of efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley H Fleming
- Clinical Chaplain, Syracuse VAMC, 800 Irving Ave, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA.
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24
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Treating trauma-driven OCD with narrative exposure therapy alongside cognitive behavioural therapy. COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPIST 2023. [DOI: 10.1017/s1754470x22000605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
When post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) co-occurs with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), symptoms of the former can interfere with evidence-based treatment of the latter. As a result, exposure-based treatments are recommended for both OCD and PTSD, potentially facilitating a concurrent treatment approach. This case study describes the application of concurrent cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT including exposure and response prevention; ERP) for OCD and narrative exposure therapy to treat a patient whose PTSD symptoms of intrusive images of memories and hyperarousal were interfering with standard CBT (including ERP) treatment for OCD. Following this concurrent approach, the patient’s symptoms of OCD reduced to non-clinical levels and showed reliable improvement in PTSD symptoms. Whilst further methodologically robust research is required, this case study highlights that this approach may be beneficial to the treatment of OCD where PTSD symptoms are impacting on treatment.
Key learning aims
(1)
To explore the literature considering explanations of the co-occurrence of OCD and PTSD symptomology.
(2)
To consider how symptoms of two mental health conditions can maintain one another and attenuate the effectiveness of evidence-based treatment for the other mental health condition.
(3)
Consider the use of concurrent therapeutic approaches to treat co-occurring mental health conditions.
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Breaking the cycles of violence with narrative exposure: Development and feasibility of NETfacts, a community-based intervention for populations living under continuous threat. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275421. [PMID: 36534649 PMCID: PMC9762574 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interpersonal violence damages mental health and frequently leads to aggressive defence strategies. If survivors are subsequently blamed for the events, both consequences worsen. Stigma flourishes, especially when survivors are silenced so that details of the trauma remain unknown. Breaking the secrecy both at the individual and collective level is key to enable the healing and reconciliation of individuals and communities living under continuous threat. METHOD The NETfacts health system is a stepped care model with three components: (1) Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET), an evidence-based trauma therapy that includes survivor testimony (2) NET for Forensic Offender Rehabilitation (FORNET) acknowledges that perpetrators are frequently also victims and assists in reducing aggression and the attraction to violence, and (3) a community intervention disseminating and discussing Facts derived from NET treatment (NETfacts) to challenge the collective avoidance of atrocities and other traumatic material. The intervention was piloted in a community with 497 adult residents in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The willingness of clients to consent to sharing their anonymised testimonies (with a focus on sexual violence survivors and ex-combatants) was investigated, together with other components of feasibility including security and clinical safety, extent of support of respected local authorities and participation rates. As secondary outcomes, clinical and social measures were assessed before and post NETfacts among 200 village residents of whom 160 self-enrolled and 40 had not participated in any form of treatment. RESULTS Implementation was feasible with 248 clients from a partner project giving consent to use their testimonies and high support of respected local authorities and participation rates (56% of residents self-enrolled in NETfacts). Immediate beneficial effects were shown for posttraumatic stress and rejection of rape myths among NETfacts participants who experienced multiple traumatic events in their own past. Attitudes towards ex-combatants improved and the perceived lack of social acknowledgement after trauma increased independent from participation. No significant change was observed for depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION NETfacts is a feasible and promising approach to challenge the culture of secrecy surrounding trauma, suppression and social exclusion. Long term effectiveness requires further evaluation.
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26
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Bedard-Gilligan M, Kaysen D, Cordero RM, Huh D, Walker D, Kaiser-Schauer E, Robjant K, Saluskin K, Pearson C. Adapting narrative exposure therapy with a tribal community: A community-based approach. J Clin Psychol 2022; 78:2087-2108. [PMID: 35621371 PMCID: PMC9811656 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23395] [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: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE American Indian (AI) individuals are at increased risk for present-day trauma exposure and associated negative outcomes, as well as ongoing effects of intergenerational trauma exposure and adversity. However, few empirically supported treatments exist that are specifically tailored and/or tested with AI communities. This study describes the process of selecting, adapting, and implementing narrative exposure therapy (NET) with an AI community. METHODS A community and academic partnership was formed and worked together to make culturally mindful changes to NET to best fit the needs of the community. The partnership incorporated community leaders/Elders (n = 7), providers (n = 11), and participants seeking treatment (n = 50) to implement an iterative process of adapting and implementing the adapted form of NET. RESULTS Key adaptions included addressing historical and intergenerational trauma, greater protections for confidentiality in a small community, and incorporation of cultural customs and traditions. Overall, the adapted form of NET was favorably received by the participants, and the implementation appeared to be feasible, with improved retention over past trials of adapted trauma-focused treatments with this community and with highly positive satisfaction ratings and feedback. CONCLUSIONS NET was shown to be an appropriate approach for this AI community and should be considered as a treatment option for other AI communities. Future work should consider strategies outlined in this adaption as well as following a similar process for working with AI communities to implement culturally appropriate interventions for trauma-related symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Bedard-Gilligan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Debra Kaysen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Rebeca Marin Cordero
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - David Huh
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Denise Walker
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Elisabeth Kaiser-Schauer
- Vivo International, Konstanz, Germany
- Center of Excellence for Psychotraumatology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, USA
| | | | - Kathy Saluskin
- Yakama Nation Behavioral Health, Toppenish, Washington, USA
| | - Cynthia Pearson
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Tsubonouchi C, Kinoshita Y, Nomura N. The patient-authored medical record: A narrative path to a new tool in psychiatric nursing. Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2022; 39:46-53. [PMID: 35688543 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2022.03.009] [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: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
This paper describes preliminary research from Japan on developing a new tool for psychiatric nurses, the patient-authored medical record, a "prescription" written in ordinary language by the patient with the assistance of a nurse. The nurse asks the patient how to improve their illness and she types up the patient's story on site in the form of a first-person narrative. The patient checks it for accuracy before taking a copy home. Ten Japanese patients participated in this field-oriented ethnographic study, and the analysis of the qualitative data strongly suggested that the approach had therapeutic effects on each patient. This narrative-based prescription could be used as a tool, specifically by psychiatric nurses, in many cultures, and it is our hope that it contributes to their professional identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chizuru Tsubonouchi
- School of Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya City, Japan; School of Nursing, Japanese Red Cross Toyota College of Nursing, Toyota City, Japan
| | | | - Naoki Nomura
- Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya City, Japan.
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Velu ME, Martens I, Shahab M, de Roos C, Jongedijk RA, Schok M, Mooren T. Trauma-focused treatments for refugee children: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial of the effectiveness of KIDNET versus EMDR therapy versus a waitlist control group (KIEM). Trials 2022; 23:347. [PMID: 35461281 PMCID: PMC9034070 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06178-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in refugees is reportedly higher in comparison to the general population. Refugee children specifically are often coping with trauma and loss and are at risk for mental health difficulties. With staggering numbers of people seeking refuge around the world and 50% being 18 years or younger, research examining the effects of trauma-focused therapies for refugee children with PTSD is highly needed. Both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and the child version of Narrative Exposure Therapy (KIDNET) have been used for refugees, although these treatment methods have not been systematically compared. The aim of the current study is to investigate the effectiveness of EMDR and KIDNET, compared to a waitlist control group and with each other, offered to refugee children. METHODS A randomized controlled three-arm trial has been designed. The primary outcome is PTSD diagnosis and symptom severity assessed with the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for Children DSM5 (CAPS-CA-5) at baseline (T1), 1 month post-treatment, or after 8 weeks of waiting (T2) and 3 months follow-up (T3). Additionally, instruments to assess posttraumatic stress symptoms, behavioral and emotional problems, and quality of life perception in children aged 8-18 are conducted at T1, T2, and T3. DISCUSSION This is the first RCT that examines the effectiveness of EMDR and KIDNET in refugee children aged 8-18 years specifically, compared to a waitlist control group intended to reduce PTSD diagnosis and severity of posttraumatic stress symptoms and comorbid complaints in a growing and challenging population. TRIAL REGISTRATION Dutch Trial Register NL40769 . Retrospectively registered on June 16, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merel E Velu
- ARQ Centrum'45, partner in ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands. .,Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Irene Martens
- ARQ Centrum'45, partner in ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Oegstgeest, The Netherlands
| | - Mona Shahab
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,King Salman Center for Disability Research, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Carlijn de Roos
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ruud A Jongedijk
- ARQ Centrum'45, partner in ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands
| | - Michaela Schok
- ARQ Centrum'45, partner in ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - T Mooren
- ARQ Centrum'45, partner in ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Evidence-based individual psychotherapy for complex posttraumatic stress disorder and at-risk groups for complex traumatization: A meta-review. J Affect Disord 2022; 299:610-619. [PMID: 34952116 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.12.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current meta-review of meta-analyses on psychotherapy research for complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) and samples at risk of complex traumatization has three aims: first, to provide an overview of efficacy of individual psychotherapies; second, to compare the quality of the meta-analyses; and third, to assess statistical power. METHODS The literature search was conducted until August 2020. Meta-analyses providing individual treatment effect estimates focusing on CPTSD or samples at risk of complex traumatization (i.e., victims of childhood sexual abuse (CSA), war or torture, refugees, and veterans with PTSD) were eligible for inclusion. The effect sizes were classified according to Cohen as small, medium, or large. The "A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews" (AMSTAR) was applied to assess the quality of the meta-analyses, and power was assessed post-hoc. RESULTS Twenty-four meta-analyses were suitable for inclusion. The efficacy of the interventions varied (g = -0.04 (CI -0.39; 0.48), controlled, to d = 2.73 (1.69; 3.76), uncontrolled). Overall, 16 effect estimates were large. On average, the quality of the meta-analyses was good (average AMSTAR total score 7.71 points (range 3-11). Considering quality assessments and power together, nine meta-analyses were evaluated as high quality. LIMITATIONS No meta-analysis for CPTSD was eligible and the number of individuals with complex traumatization was not directly assessed in the at-risk groups. CONCLUSIONS For at-risk groups for complex traumatization, on average, good-quality empirical evidence exists. Given the limited research on CPTSD, future studies are needed to further investigate the efficacy of interventions.
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30
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Simon PD, Collado ZC. Responding to challenges in mental health care access in conflict-affected low-and middle-income countries: A Philippine perspective. Asian J Psychiatr 2022; 68:102978. [PMID: 34971936 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2021.102978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Zaldy C Collado
- Department of Sociology and Behavioral Sciences, De La Salle University, Philippines.
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31
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Mauritz M, Goossens P, Jongedijk R, Vermeulen H, van Gaal B. Investigating the Efficacy and Experiences With Narrative Exposure Therapy in Severe Mentally Ill Patients With Comorbid Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Receiving Flexible Assertive Community Treatment: A Mixed Methods Study. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:804491. [PMID: 35573345 PMCID: PMC9095974 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.804491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with severe mental illness with repeated interpersonal trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have a negative illness progression. Traumas are often not treated because of their vulnerability. Narrative exposure therapy (NET) is an effective trauma therapy. It is unknown whether NET is effective and tolerable in these patients receiving community mental healthcare. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are (1) to gain insights into patients' experiences before, during, and after NET concerning changes in PTSD, dissociative and severe mental ill symptoms, care needs (CAN), quality of life, and global functioning; (2) to identify factors that influence diagnostic changes after NET as compared to patients' experiences. These insights will help to decide whether NET should be incorporated in usual care for these patients. DESIGN A mixed methods convergent design consists of a grounded theory approach with thematic analysis followed by a merged analysis, comparing quantitative, and qualitative data for each participant and by means of a joint matrix. PARTICIPANTS Adult psychiatric outpatients (age, 21-65) with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to repeated interpersonal trauma were indicted for the study. METHODS Baseline demographics and clinical characteristics were assessed. Qualitative data were collected 3 months after NET using individual semi-structured in-depth interviews. The merged analysis compared quantitative and qualitative results for each participant. RESULTS Twenty-three outpatients (female, 82%) with a mean age of 49.9 years (SD 9.8) participated in the study. Participants experienced NET as intensive, and most of them tolerated it well. Afterward, eighteen participants perceived less symptoms. Mixed analysis showed substantial congruency between quantitative scores and participants' perceptions of PTSD, dissociative symptoms, and CAN (Cohen's kappa > 0.4). Remission of PTSD was associated with sufficient experienced support. CONCLUSION Outpatients with severe mental illness underwent intensive NET, and most of them tolerate it well. This therapy is clearly efficacious in this group. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION [www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NL5608 (NTR5714)].
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mauritz
- GGNet Center for Mental Health Care, Warnsveld, Netherlands.,Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Peter Goossens
- Dimence Group, Center for Mental Health Care, SCBS Bipolar Disorders, Deventer, Netherlands.,Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Center for Nursing and Midwifery, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ruud Jongedijk
- ARQ Centrum'45, Oegstgeest, Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Netherlands
| | - Hester Vermeulen
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,School of Health Studies, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Betsie van Gaal
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,School of Health Studies, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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Abstract
UNLABELLED A recent scandal in the Netherlands painfully underscored that sexual harassment and abuse are unfortunately still happening around the world, even after decades of advocacy on this issue and five years of #MeToo. To make progress in prevention and treatment we argue that we should address sexual violence from a public health perspective. Fruthermore, looking back on the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic was the dominant and potentially traumatic stressor affecting large populations around the world. Another big topic was that of the impact of climate change, we are only beginning to realize its impact on stress across the globe. The European Journal of Psychotraumatology (EJPT), with its increasing global readership and scientific and social impact, is focusing on the traumatic stress aspects of these and many other events. Relatedly, neurobiological aspects are an important and growing focus of the journal in that they help us better understand the mechanisms behind the development of trauma-related disorders and their treatment. In this editorial, we present recent trends, new Open Science developments, journal metrics, the plans and themes for next year and the ESTSS EJPT award winners for best paper of 2021. HIGHLIGHTS Next years' research focus should be on sexual violence from a public health lens, climate change, and neurobiologal aspects of trauma-related disorders. The European Journal of Psychotraumatology (EJPT) calls or papers on these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Olff
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience & Public Health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Netherlands
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McLean CP, Levy HC, Miller ML, Tolin DF. Exposure therapy for PTSD: A meta-analysis. Clin Psychol Rev 2021; 91:102115. [PMID: 34954460 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2021.102115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with high morbidity and functional impairment in the absence of effective treatment. Exposure therapy for PTSD is a trauma-focused treatment that typically includes in vivo and/or imaginal exposure. The goal of this meta-analysis was to examine the overall efficacy of exposure therapy for PTSD compared to various control conditions. We also assessed the efficacy of individual exposure-based treatments and the potentially moderating impact of various demographic, clinical, and treatment-related factors. PsycINFO and Medline were searched for randomized controlled trials of exposure-based therapies for adult PTSD. A total of 934 abstracts were screened for initial eligibility; of these, 65 articles met inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis (total N = 4929 patients). Exposure therapy showed large effects relative to waitlist and treatment-as-usual, a small effect relative to non-trauma-focused comparators and a negligible effect relative to other trauma-focused treatments or medication. At follow-up most effects sizes were stable, except for a medium effect favoring exposure over medication. The individual exposure-based therapies examined were similarly effective. Moderator analyses revealed larger effect sizes in studies with fewer sessions, younger samples, fewer participants diagnosed with substance use disorder, and fewer participants on psychiatric medication. Effect sizes were also larger in studies of refugees and civilians compared to military samples, studies of PTSD related to natural disasters and transportation accidents vs. other traumatic events, and studies of individual vs. group therapy. Findings support the overall efficacy of exposure therapy and highlight that there are a number of efficacious exposure-based therapies available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen P McLean
- National Center for PTSD, Dissemination and Training Division, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 795 Willow Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305-5717, USA.
| | - Hannah C Levy
- Anxiety Disorders Center, The Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital, 200 Retreat Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106, USA
| | - Madeleine L Miller
- National Center for PTSD, Dissemination and Training Division, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 795 Willow Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - David F Tolin
- Anxiety Disorders Center, The Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital, 200 Retreat Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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Chipalo E. Is Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Effective in Reducing Trauma Symptoms among Traumatized Refugee Children? A Systematic Review. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2021; 14:545-558. [PMID: 34790283 PMCID: PMC8586102 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-021-00370-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED In 2019, more than 25.9 million children under 18 were displaced due to unending political conflicts. Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) has a high level of empirical evidence to support its efficacy in processing trauma and behavioral problems in non-refugee children. Yet, little is known about its long-term effectiveness in refugee children. This study conducted a systematic review that assessed the evidence of the effectiveness of TF-CBT in reducing trauma symptoms among refugee children under 18 years of age. A systematic review was conducted from peer-reviewed literature databases (12 databases): PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses (PQDT), Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, PROSPERO, EBSCOHost, Campbell Collaboration Library of Systematic Reviews, Social Sciences Index, and grey literature sources published from 1990 to 2019. The search yielded 1650 articles, and 4 peer reviewed studies were identified that met inclusion criteria and yielded a sample size of 64 refugee children from 21 different countries. All 4 studies provided evidence that supported TF-CBT's effectiveness in decreasing trauma symptoms and sustainment during the follow-up assessment among refugee children participants. Despite TF-CBT effectiveness for trauma symptoms treatment, there is still limited evidence to suggest that TF-CBT is effective for all refugee children due to the pilot nature of the studies, and its underutilization in traumatized refugee children from different cultural backgrounds. Future studies should conduct more TF-CBT interventions with diverse refugee children to provide more empirical support for its effectiveness with that population. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40653-021-00370-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edson Chipalo
- School of Social Work, The University of Alabama, Little Hall, 670 Judy Bonner Drive, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 USA
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35
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Siehl S, Wilhelms L, Crombach A. Commentary on Raghuraman et al. (2021). On the Long-Term Efficacy and Effectiveness of Narrative Exposure Therapy. Front Psychol 2021; 12:771958. [PMID: 34819901 PMCID: PMC8606553 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.771958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Siehl
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany.,Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Non-governmental Organization vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Laura Wilhelms
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Non-governmental Organization vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy for Children and Adolescents at the University of Saarland, Saarbrücken, Germany.,Department of Psychology at the University of Konstanz, Clinical Psychology, Kosntanz, Germany.,Non-governmental Organization Psychologues Sans Frontières, Bujumbura, Burundi.,Department of Clinical Psychology, Université Lumière de Bujumbura, Bujumbura, Burundi
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Fan Y, Shi Y, Zhang J, Sun D, Wang X, Fu G, Mo D, Wen J, Xiao X, Kong L. The effects of narrative exposure therapy on COVID-19 patients with post-traumatic stress symptoms: A randomized controlled trial. J Affect Disord 2021; 293:141-147. [PMID: 34186232 PMCID: PMC8234566 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the global attack of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), cases with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) have been increasing steadily, which seriously affects the quality of life of patients and as such, seeking effective treatments is an urgent matter. Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is a typical cognitive behavioral therapy targeting trauma-related psychological disorders and may be an effective intervention. METHODS A total of 111 COVID-19 patients near the discharge stage with positive screening results for posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) were randomly assigned (1:1) to either the study group or the control group. The study group received NET and personalized psychological intervention, while the control group only received personalized psychological intervention. PTSS, depression, anxiety and sleep quality were measured pre- and post-intervention to evaluate the effect of NET. This trial was registered with the International Standard Randomized Clinical Trial Registry (No. ChiCTR2000039369). RESULTS NET participants showed a significantly greater PTSS reduction in comparison with the control group after the intervention. Improvement in sleep quality, anxiety and depression after the intervention were pronounced but not significantly different between the two treatment groups. LIMITATIONS The assessors weren't blinded for the convenience of measurement and protection of participants' psychological security. CONCLUSIONS NET likely had a positive impact on PTSS of COVID-19 patients. Clinical staff should consider applying NET to improve the psychological well-being of patients who have experienced an epidemic such as COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Fan
- Bachelor of Nursing, Wuhan University School of Health Sciences, Xiangzhou District People's Hospital in Hubei Province, China
| | - Yuxin Shi
- Bachelor of Nursing, Wuhan University School of Health Sciences, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Associate Professor, Wuhan University School of Health Sciences, China.
| | - Dingwen Sun
- Associate chief physician, Vice President of Xiangzhou District People's Hospital, Xiangyang city, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xuefei Wang
- Bachelor of Nursing; Wuhan University School of Health Sciences, Xiangyang Central Hospital in Hubei Province, China
| | - Gaizhi Fu
- Associate professor of nursing, Director of psychological Outpatient Department, Xiangzhou District People's Hospital, Xiangyang city, Hubei Province, China
| | - Daorong Mo
- Associate professor of nursing; Xiangzhou District People's Hospital, Xiangyang city, Hubei Province, China
| | - Juan Wen
- Associate professor of nursing, Xiangzhou District People's Hospital, Xiangyang city, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xuexia Xiao
- Associate professor of nursing, Xiangyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Hubei Province, China
| | - Lingai Kong
- Bachelor of Public health, Wuhan University School of Health Sciences, China
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Zhou YG, Shang ZL, Zhang F, Wu LL, Sun LN, Jia YP, Yu HB, Liu WZ. PTSD: Past, present and future implications for China. Chin J Traumatol 2021; 24:187-208. [PMID: 33994278 PMCID: PMC8343811 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjtee.2021.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been a long history since human beings began to realize the existence of post-traumatic symptoms. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a diagnostic category adopted in 1980 in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Ⅲ, described typical clusters of psychiatric symptoms occurring after traumatic events. Abundant researches have helped deepen the understanding of PTSD in terms of epidemiological features, biological mechanisms, and treatment options. The prevalence of PTSD in general population ranged from 6.4% to 7.8% and was significantly higher among groups who underwent major public traumatic events. There has been a long way in the studies of animal models and genetic characteristics of PTSD. However, the high comorbidity with other stress-related psychiatric disorders and complexity in the pathogenesis of PTSD hindered the effort to find specific biological targets for PTSD. Neuroimage was widely used to elucidate the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms of PTSD. Functional MRI studies have showed that PTSD was linked to medial prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex and sub-cortical structures like amygdala and hippocampus, and to explore the functional connectivity among these brain areas which might reveal the possible neurobiological mechanism related to PTSD symptoms. For now, cognitive behavior therapy-based psychotherapy, including combination with adjunctive medication, showed evident treatment effects on PTSD. The emergence of more effective PTSD pharmacotherapies awaits novel biomarkers from further fundamental research. Several natural disasters and emergencies have inevitably increased the possibility of suffering from PTSD in the last two decades, making it critical to strengthen PTSD research in China. To boost PTSD study in China, the following suggestions might be helpful: (1) establishing a national psychological trauma recover project, and (2) exploring the mechanisms of PTSD with joint effort and strengthening the indigenized treatment of PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Guang Zhou
- Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Zhi-Lei Shang
- The Emotion & Cognition Lab, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Li-Li Wu
- Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China,The Emotion & Cognition Lab, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Lu-Na Sun
- Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China,The Emotion & Cognition Lab, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yan-Pu Jia
- Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China,The Emotion & Cognition Lab, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Hai-Bo Yu
- Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China,Corresponding author.
| | - Wei-Zhi Liu
- Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China,The Emotion & Cognition Lab, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China,Corresponding author. Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental Health, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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Hendaus M, Mourad N, Younes S, Hammoudi D, Rahal M, Basheti I. The psychological impact of the Syrian crisis on refugees living in Lebanon. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2021; 57:1376-1381. [PMID: 33258132 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to evaluate the impact of war on Syrian refugees' life in Bekaa/Lebanon, focusing on psychological and physical symptoms, and to assess the prevalence of the most common symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in affected patients recruited in the study. DESIGN AND METHODS This observational study was conducted over a period of 1 month-June 2019-in three main camps in the Bekaa region. After taking approval, a total number of 108 Syrian refugees were interviewed and asked about their quality of life and health conditions in camps, after leaving their country. A validated questionnaire was filled by field researchers to gather information on refugees' psychological distresses, physical symptoms, and future perspective. FINDINGS During the 4 weeks of study, 108 refugees completed the questionnaire; psychological assessment showed 73.8% of refugees who were exposed to the fighting atmosphere, suffered from one or more psychological symptoms related to PTSD. In addition, 50.5% of the refugees were <30 years old, and among those, 83.5% believed that they have no future for themselves and their families, while 15.4% lost hope in a better life. Seventy-four percent reported at least one physical symptom in the past 4 weeks that is related to PTSD. Furthermore, 64.3% strongly agreed that there is lack of awareness and medical care including psychological and mental health, while 56.1% strongly agreed on the important role of pharmacists and other healthcare professionals in providing advice to patients on their overall health and mental health. CONCLUSION Syrian refugees at the assessed camps suffered from psychological distress that requires urgent attention. Current medical and psychological support is absent, and further assessment is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Hendaus
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Nisreen Mourad
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Samar Younes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Dalal Hammoudi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Rahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Iman Basheti
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
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Hiebel N, Rabe M, Maus K, Peusquens F, Radbruch L, Geiser F. Resilience in Adult Health Science Revisited-A Narrative Review Synthesis of Process-Oriented Approaches. Front Psychol 2021; 12:659395. [PMID: 34149549 PMCID: PMC8210849 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.659395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This article aims to identify how the term “resilience” is addressed in adult health science due to ongoing criticism about the lack of consistency in its conceptualization. Method: Two databases (PubMed and PsycArticles) were searched to retrieve reviews published from 2015 up until 2020 on the general conceptualization of resilience. All reviews had to meet specific inclusion criteria, which resulted in the inclusion of 18 articles. After discussing different conceptualizations regarding the process-oriented approach of resilience in adult health research, we will highlight some mechanisms that are supposed to be involved in the resilience process. Results: Research on resilience in health sciences confronts three core difficulties: defining positive outcome for a processual construct, describing different trajectories within the process, and identifying mechanisms that mediate resilience. Conclusion: The definition of resilience in mental health research as a multidimensional adaptation process is widely accepted, and multiple research paradigms have contributed to a better understanding of the concept. However, the definition of a processual construct in a way that allows for high expert consensus and a valid operationalization for empirical studies remains a challenge. Future research should focus on the assessment of multiple cross-domain outcomes and international and interdisciplinary prospective mixed-method longitudinal designs to fill in the missing links.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Hiebel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Milena Rabe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Katja Maus
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank Peusquens
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lukas Radbruch
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Franziska Geiser
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Dang CM, Lee MH, Nguyen AM, Diduck A, Villareal A, Simic Z, Pollio DE, North CS. Survivor narratives of the Oklahoma City bombing: The story over time. JOURNAL OF CONTINGENCIES AND CRISIS MANAGEMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1468-5973.12357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christine M. Dang
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
| | - Min Hyung Lee
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
| | - Anna Marie Nguyen
- Department of Psychological Sciences Fullbright College of Arts and Sciences The University of Arkansas Fayetteville Arkansas USA
| | - Alexandra Diduck
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
| | - Ariel Villareal
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
| | - Zorica Simic
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
| | - David E. Pollio
- Department of Social Work College of Arts and Sciences The University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham Alabama USA
| | - Carol S. North
- The Altshuler Center for Education & Research Metrocare Services Dallas Texas USA
- Department of Psychiatry The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
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Steil R, Görg N, Kümmerle S, Lechner-Meichsner F, Gutermann J, Müller-Engelmann M. Die Cognitive Processing Therapy zur Behandlung Geflüchteter mit einer Posttraumatischen Belastungsstörung: Eine Machbarkeitsstudie. VERHALTENSTHERAPIE 2021. [DOI: 10.1159/000514724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
<b><i>Hintergrund:</i></b> Metaanalysen zeigen die Wirksamkeit traumafokussierter Verfahren für Geflüchtete. Für die Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) liegt bei dieser Population in Deutschland bisher keine empirische Machbarkeitsprüfung vor. <b><i>Patient</i></b>*<b><i>innen und Methoden:</i></b> Im Rahmen einer Machbarkeitsstudie erhielten 16 Geflüchtete mit einer Posttraumatischen Belastungsstörung (PTBS) unter klinischen Routinebedingungen drei diagnostische Vorgespräche, fünf probatorische Sitzungen, zwölf Doppelsitzungen (100 Minuten) CPT sowie bis zu vier optionale Krisensitzungen. Vor und nach der Therapie wurde die PTBS-Symptomatik erhoben. Qualitative Nachbefragungen mit Patient*innen und Therapeut*innen wurden durchgeführt. <b><i>Ergebnisse:</i></b> Insgesamt neun von 16 Patient*innen brachen die Therapie vorzeitig ab. Innerhalb der Completer-Stichprobe (Per-protocol-Analyse) zeigten sich mittelgroße, aber nicht signifikante Effekte auf die PTBS-Symptomatik (<i>d</i> = 0,75; M[CAPS<sub>prä</sub>] = 39,33 [SD = 10,89]; M[CAPS<sub>post</sub>] = 22,50 [SD = 15,16]). Patient*innen und Therapeut*innen berichteten eine Reihe von Hürden in der Therapiedurchführung. <b><i>Diskussionen:</i></b> Die vorliegende Machbarkeitsstudie verzeichnete eine für die CPT ungewöhnlich hohe Abbruchquote. Diese lässt sich möglicherweise auf die mangelnde Passung des Verfahrens für Patient*innen mit geringer Schreib- und Lesekompetenz oder hoher psychosozialer Belastung zurückführen. Implikationen für die Behandlung Geflüchteter bezüglich der Wahl des Behandlungsverfahrens, der Motivationsklärung und der Rahmenbedingungen werden diskutiert. <b><i>Schlussfolgerungen:</i></b> Während breite empirische Evidenz für traumafokussierte Verfahren bei Geflüchteten vorliegt, ist die Standard-CPT möglicherweise nur für Subgruppen dieser Population geeignet. Eine Vereinfachung der CPT-Materialien und eine vorherige Motivationsklärung erscheinen notwendig.
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Unaccompanied minors’ experiences of narrative exposure therapy. COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPIST 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s1754470x21000088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Despite the understanding that unaccompanied minors’ (UAM) experience high rates of post-traumatic stress, the provision of evidence-based trauma-focused therapies is low for this population. Narrative exposure therapy (NET) is an effective short-term intervention for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after multiple traumatic experiences, such as those experienced by UAM. Within the existing literature, there is a lack of research investigating unaccompanied minors’ experiences of NET or any trauma-focused therapy. Participants were four UAM experiencing PTSD who formed part of a pilot delivery of NET within a dedicated child and adolescent mental health service for refugee children. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and transcripts were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). This project identified five themes that encapsulated unaccompanied minors’ experiences of receiving NET, including the process of preparing for this therapy, what it was like to receive it, and the differences they identified at the end of treatment. The significance of this taking place within a safe therapeutic relationship was explored within the context of the attachment losses experienced by UAM, and the impact this has on emotion regulation was considered. The potential of a reduction in PTSD symptoms facilitating a positive spiral in adolescence was reflected on within this paper.
Key learning aims
(1)
To understand the experience of unaccompanied asylum-seeking minors (UAM) receiving narrative exposure therapy (NET) for post-traumatic stress disorder.
(2)
To understand the key concerns and motivators for UAM when considering engaging in NET.
(3)
To understand how these experiences relate to theoretical frameworks and the existing literature relating to emotional difficulties in adolescence.
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Kaltenbach E, McGrath PJ, Schauer M, Kaiser E, Crombach A, Robjant K. Practical guidelines for online Narrative Exposure Therapy (e-NET) - a short-term treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder adapted for remote delivery. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2021; 12:1881728. [PMID: 34025923 PMCID: PMC8128121 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.1881728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Online therapy has become increasingly desirable and available in recent years, with the current COVID-19 pandemic acting as a catalyst to develop further protocols enabling therapists to conduct online treatment safely and efficaciously. Offering online treatment potentially means that treatments are available to clients who would otherwise have no access, closing the gap in the provision of mental health services worldwide. Objective: This paper focuses on practical guidelines using online Narrative Exposure Therapy (e-NET). It aims to be an addition to the general manual of NET to enable therapists to deliver online treatment. The face-to-face version of NET is a well-known short-term and evidence-based treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder; e-NET is currently being tested in several additional trials. Methods: The differences between NET and e-NET are elaborated and depicted in detail. Results: Difficulties encountered in e-NET delivery, e.g. confidentiality, dealing with interruptions, comorbid symptoms among others, are similar to those that occur during face to face interventions but the solutions have to be adapted. Dissociation is often regarded as a challenge in face-to-face treatment, and requires particular attention within the online setting. Therefore, tools for addressing dissociation in this particular setting are presented. Conclusions: These practical guidelines show the advantages as well as the challenges therapists face when conducting e-NET. They aim to empower therapists working with trauma clients to conduct e-NET confidently and safely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Kaltenbach
- Centre for Research in Family Health, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Canada.,vivo international, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Patrick J McGrath
- Centre for Research in Family Health, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Maggie Schauer
- vivo international, Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Kaiser
- vivo international, Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anselm Crombach
- vivo international, Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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Vanaken L, Smeets T, Bijttebier P, Hermans D. Keep Calm and Carry On: The Relations Between Narrative Coherence, Trauma, Social Support, Psychological Well-Being, and Cortisol Responses. Front Psychol 2021; 12:558044. [PMID: 33643119 PMCID: PMC7905304 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.558044] [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: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to explain trauma resilience, previous research has been investigating possible risk and protective factors, both on an individual and a contextual level. In this experimental study, we examined narrative coherence and social support in relation to trauma resilience. Participants were asked to write about a turning point memory, after which they did the Maastricht Acute Stress Test, our lab analog of a traumatic event. Following, half of the participants received social support, whereas the other half did not. Afterwards, all participants wrote a narrative on the traumatic event. Moment-to-moment fluctuations in psychological and physiological well-being throughout the experiment were investigated with state anxiety questionnaires and cortisol measures. Results showed that narratives of traumatic experiences were less coherent than narratives of turning point memories. However, contrary to our predictions, coherence, and, in particular, thematic coherence, related positively to anxiety levels. Possibly, particular types of thematic coherence are a non-adaptive form of coping, which reflect unfinished attempts at meaning-making and are more similar to continuous rumination than to arriving at a resolution. Furthermore, coherence at baseline could not buffer against the impact of trauma on anxiety levels in this study. Contrary to our hypotheses, social support did not have the intended beneficial effects on coherence, neither on well-being. Multiple explanations as to why our support manipulation remained ineffective are suggested. Remarkably, lower cortisol levels at baseline and after writing about the turning point memory predicted higher coherence in the trauma narratives. This may suggest that the ability to remain calm in difficult situations does relate to the ability to cope adaptively with future difficult experiences. Clinical and social implications of the present findings are discussed, and future research recommendations on the relations between narrative coherence, social support, and trauma resilience are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauranne Vanaken
- Centre for the Psychology of Learning and Experimental Psychopathology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Smeets
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Patricia Bijttebier
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, School Psychology and Development in Context, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dirk Hermans
- Centre for the Psychology of Learning and Experimental Psychopathology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Sun X, Huang D, Zeng F, Ye Q, Xiao H, Lv D, Zhao P, Cui X. Effect of intensive care unit diary on incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression of adult intensive care unit survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Adv Nurs 2021; 77:2929-2941. [PMID: 33483993 DOI: 10.1111/jan.14706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM To systematically evaluate the effect of intensive care unit diary psychotherapy on the incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression after discharge from intensive care unit. BACKGROUND Many studies have reported the potential advantages and risks of intensive care unit diary psychotherapy in adult patients discharged from intensive care unit, but the results are divergent. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective randomized controlled or case-controlled studies. DATA SOURCE Databases such as Cochran Library, Pubmed, Embase, CINAHL, and ProQuest databases, China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI) were searched for literatures published from January 2000-March 2020. REVIEW METHODS We use the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for quality assessment and audit manager 5.3 software for meta-analysis. The main result is the incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. RESULTS Ten studies meeting the inclusion criteria were identified, including eight randomized controlled studies and two case-controlled studies, with a total of 1,210 patients. The pooled results of this meta-analysis indicated that the intensive care unit diary could reduce the incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. CONCLUSION This study showed that an intensive care unit diary could improve the psychological symptoms of adult intensive care unit patients after discharge. However, due to limitations such as publication bias and case sample size, the results should be carefully considered. Researchers need to further clarify the multidisciplinary collaborative process of intensive care unit diary therapy, the real beneficiaries, and its impact on family members' psychological status by conducting large, robust studies in the future. IMPACT This study's findings suggest that medical staff need to re-examine the role of intensive care unit diary therapy, its standardized implementation and provide effective intervention for reducing psychological stress-related symptoms of intensive care unit patients after discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xihui Sun
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai hospital affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Debin Huang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Fan Zeng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai hospital affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Qiao Ye
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai hospital affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Huineng Xiao
- Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong Central Hospital, Nanchong City, China
| | - Deping Lv
- Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong Central Hospital, Nanchong City, China
| | - Ping Zhao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Chongqing Bishan District People's Hospital (Bishan Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University), Bishan, China
| | - Xueting Cui
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai hospital affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
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Kaltenbach E, Chisholm M, Xiong T, Thomson D, Crombach A, McGrath PJ. Online narrative exposure therapy for parents of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities suffering from posttraumatic stress symptoms - study protocol of a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2021; 12:1991650. [PMID: 34868484 PMCID: PMC8635605 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.1991650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children with intellectual and neurodevelopmental disorders (IDD) often experience traumatic events in the care of their children. This leads to comparatively high numbers of mental health problems such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in those parents. Intervention approaches for parents of children with IDD are scarce and many parents remain without support. OBJECTIVE This study aims to test the feasibility and efficacy of online Narrative Exposure Therapy (eNET) with parents of children with IDD. METHODS The study follows a randomized waitlist-control design. eNET is an exposure-based PTSD intervention and includes 8-12 90-minute sessions. All sessions will be conducted via video calls with trained paraprofessionals. We aim to include 50 parents, approximately 25 in the immediate intervention group and 25 in the waitlist group. Waitlist participants will receive the same intervention after a three-month wait period. All participants need to either fulfill full or subclinical PTSD symptoms according to DSM-5. Feasibility and efficacy of the intervention will be measured with pre, post, and 2 and 6 months follow-up surveys focusing on PTSD symptoms. Secondary outcomes include other health-related outcomes such as physical symptoms, depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms and functionality. CONCLUSIONS The proposed study allows us to test the feasibility and efficacy of eNET in a sample of parents of children with IDD. There are so far no published studies on the evidence of eNET; this study is one of the first randomized controlled trials investigating the feasibility and efficacy of eNET and therefore will have implications on further research and practice.Clinical trial registration: NCT04385927Date and version identifier: 22 July 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Kaltenbach
- Centre for Research in Family Health, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Canada
| | - Michelle Chisholm
- Centre for Research in Family Health, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Canada
| | - Ting Xiong
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | | | - Anselm Crombach
- Department of Clinical Psychology in Childhood and Adolescence, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy for Children and Adolescents at the University of Saarland, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Patrick J McGrath
- Centre for Research in Family Health, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
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Mauritz MW, van Gaal BGI, Goossens PJJ, Jongedijk RA, Vermeulen H. Treating patients with severe mental illness with narrative exposure therapy for comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder. BJPsych Open 2020; 7:e12. [PMID: 33295271 PMCID: PMC7791562 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2020.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interpersonal trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in patients with severe mental illness (SMI) negatively affect illness course. Narrative exposure therapy (NET) is effective in vulnerable patient groups, but its efficacy and applicability has not been studied in out-patients with SMI. AIMS We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and applicability of NET in SMI on changes in PTSD, dissociation, SMI symptoms, care needs, quality of life, global functioning and care consumption. METHOD The study had a single-group, pre-test-post-test, repeated-measures design and was registered in The Netherlands National Trial Register (identifier TR571). Primary outcomes were assessed at pre-treatment (T0), 1 month post-treatment (T1) and 7 months' follow-up (T2), with a structured interview for PTSD and dissociation screening. Secondary outcomes followed routinely SMI measurements and medical data. Mixed models were used for data analysis. RESULTS The majority of the 23 participants was female (82%). Mean age was 49.9 years (s.d. 9.8) and mean PTSD duration was 24.1 years (s.d. 14.5). Mean PTSD severity decreased from 37.9 at T0 to 31.9 at T1 (-6.0 difference, 95%CI -10.0 to -2.0), and decreased further to 24.5 at T2 (-13.4 difference, 95%CI -17.4 to -9.4). Dissociation, SMI symptoms, duration of contacts, and medication decreased; global functioning increased; and quality of life and perceived needs did not change. Eleven participants were in remission for PTSD at T2, of which five were also in remission for major depression. CONCLUSIONS NET appeared efficacious and applicable to out-patients with SMI and PTSD, and was well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria W Mauritz
- GGNet Center for Mental Health Care, The Netherlands; Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, The Netherlands
| | - Betsie G I van Gaal
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, The Netherlands; HAN University for Applied Sciences, Nursing Studies, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J J Goossens
- Dimence Group, Center for Mental Health Care, Specialistisch Centrum Bipolaire Stoornissen, The Netherlands; and University Centre for Nursing and Midwifery, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Ruud A Jongedijk
- ARQ Centrum '45; and ARQ National Psychotrauma Center, The Netherlands
| | - Hester Vermeulen
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, The Netherlands; and HAN University for Applied Sciences, Nursing studies, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Kananian S, Soltani Y, Hinton D, Stangier U. Culturally Adapted Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Plus Problem Management (CA-CBT+) With Afghan Refugees: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. J Trauma Stress 2020; 33:928-938. [PMID: 33155348 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Culturally adapted cognitive behavioral therapy (CA-CBT) is a well-evaluated, transdiagnostic group intervention for refugees that uses psychoeducation, meditation, and stretching exercises. In the current study, we added problem-solving training to CA-CBT and evaluated this treatment (i.e., CA-CBT+) in a randomized controlled pilot trial with a sample of Farsi-speaking refugees. Participants (N = 24) were male refugees diagnosed with DSM-5 PTSD, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorders who were randomly assigned to either a treatment or waitlist control (WLC) condition. Treatment components were adapted both to the specific cultural background and the current social problems of asylum seekers. Assessments were performed pretreatment, 12-weeks posttreatment, and 1-year follow-up. The primary treatment outcome was the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28); secondary outcome measures included the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist, Patient Health Questionnaire, Somatic Symptom Scale, World Health Organization Quality of Life, and Emotion Regulation Scale. Eleven of 12 participants were randomized to CA-CBT+ completed treatment. Based on intent-to-treat data, large between-group effect sizes were seen at posttreatment in the GHQ-28, d = 3.0, and for most secondary outcome measures. Improvements for individuals in the treatment group decreased at 1-year follow-up, but effect sizes demonstrated continued large improvements on all measures as compared to pretreatment levels. In summary, CA-CBT+ led to large improvements in general psychopathological distress and quality of life, which were maintained in the long term. In addition, the dropout rate was very low, with delivery in group format. Thus, problem-solving training appears to be a promising addition to CA-CBT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yasaman Soltani
- Department of Psychology, University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Devon Hinton
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ulrich Stangier
- Department of Psychology, University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
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Pundir P, Saran A, White H, Subrahmanian R, Adona J. Interventions for reducing violence against children in low- and middle-income countries: An evidence and gap map. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2020; 16:e1120. [PMID: 37016609 PMCID: PMC8356324 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than half of the children in the world experience some form of interpersonal violence every year. As compared with high-income countries, policy responses in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are limited due to resource constraints and paucity of evidence for effective interventions to reduce violence against children in their own contexts, amongst other factors. OBJECTIVES The aim of this evidence and gap map (EGM) is to provide an overview of the existing evidence available and to identify gaps in the evidence base on the effectiveness of interventions to reduce violence against children in LMICs. This report covers evidence published in English; a follow-up study is under preparation focusing on evidence in five additional languages-Arabic, Chinese, French, Portuguese and Spanish. METHODS The intervention-outcome framework for this EGM is based on INSPIRE-Seven Strategies for Ending Violence against Children, published by WHO and other partners in 2016. The seven strategies include implementation and enforcement of laws; norms and values, safe environment; parent-child and caregiver support; income and economic strengthening; response and support services; education and life skills. The search included both academic and grey literature available online. We included impact evaluations and systematic reviews that assessed the effectiveness of interventions to reduce interpersonal violence against children (0-18 years) in LMICs (World Bank, 2018b). Interventions targeting subpopulation of parents, teachers and caregivers of 0-18 years' age group were also included. A critical appraisal of all included studies was carried out using standardised tools. RESULTS The map includes 152 studies published in English of which 55 are systematic reviews and 97 are impact evaluations. Most studies in the map are from Sub-Saharan Africa. Education and life skills are the most widely populated intervention area of the map followed by income and economic strengthening interventions. Very few studies measure impact on economic and social outcomes, and few conduct cost-analysis. CONCLUSION More studies focusing on low-income and fragile and conflict-affected settings (FCS) and studying and reporting on cost-analysis are required to address gaps in the evidence. Most interventions covered in the literature focused on addressing a wide range of forms of violence and harm, which limited understanding of how and for whom the interventions work in a given context, for specific forms of violence. More impact evaluation studies are required that assess specific forms of violence, gendered effects of interventions and on diverse social groups in a given context, utilising mixed methods.
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Siehl S, Robjant K, Crombach A. Systematic review and meta-analyses of the long-term efficacy of narrative exposure therapy for adults, children and perpetrators. Psychother Res 2020; 31:695-710. [PMID: 33205713 DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2020.1847345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is a short-term trauma-focused intervention originally developed for treating survivors of war and torture. The neurobiological theoretical foundations of NET would suggest that the approach should have long term beneficial effects. We tested this assumption and also provided an extensive overview of all NET studies for adults, for children (KIDNET), and for perpetrators (Forensic Offender Rehabilitation NET; FORNET).Method: Following a systematic literature review, we conducted meta-analyses with all studies that had control conditions, and with all Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). We assessed between-groups short- (< 6 months) and long-term (≥ 6 months) effect sizes for symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.Results: In a total of 56 studies from 30 countries comparing 1370 participants treated with NET to 1055 controls, we found large between group effect sizes regarding the reduction of PTSD symptoms in favor of NET. Analyses of RCTs with active controls yielded small to medium effect sizes in the short-term, and large effect sizes in the long-term.Conclusions: NET, KIDNET, and FORNET yield beneficial and sustainable treatment results for severely traumatized individuals living in adverse circumstances. Studies in highly developed health care systems comparing NET with other evidence-based trauma-focused interventions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Siehl
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Graduate School of Economic and Social Sciences, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany.,Non-Governmental Organization vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Katy Robjant
- Non-Governmental Organization vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Non-Governmental Organization vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Psychology at the University of Konstanz, Experimental Clinical Psychology with a Teaching Focus on Clinical Psychology of Childhood and Adolescence.,Non-Governmental Organization Psychologues sans Frontières, Burundi, Bujumbura, Burundi.,Department of Clinical Psychology, Université Lumière de Bujumbura, Bujumbura, Burundi
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