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Basarkod S, Valbrun S, Wiltshire C, France JM, Davie W, Winters S, George SA, Stenson AF, Jovanovic T. Prospective Measurement of Skin Conductance Response during Trauma Interview Predicts Future PTSD Severity in Trauma Exposed Children. J Mood Anxiety Disord 2024; 7:100061. [PMID: 38559776 PMCID: PMC10976609 DOI: 10.1016/j.xjmad.2024.100061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Previous cross-sectional studies have shown that sympathetic nervous system (SNS) arousal is positively associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in children with trauma exposure. One of the ways that SNS activity is measured is through skin conductance response (SCR), which has been shown to predict future PTSD severity in adults. In this study, we explored the utility of a novel, low-cost mobile SCR device, eSense, to predict future PTSD symptom severity in trauma exposed children. We recruited children (N=43, age 9 years at initial visit) for a longitudinal study in which SCR was recorded at baseline visit, and PTSD symptoms were assessed two years later. Results indicated an interaction between SCR and trauma exposure, such that children with lower trauma exposure who demonstrated greater SCR reported higher PTSD severity two years later. This association remained significant even after controlling for baseline PTSD symptoms. Children with higher levels of trauma exposure did not show this association, potentially due to ceiling effects of PTSD symptoms. Together these findings suggest the utility of SCR as a biomarker for predicting trauma related disorders in children, and that it may be a valuable tool in clinical interventions targeting sympathetic arousal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sattvik Basarkod
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Shaurel Valbrun
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Charis Wiltshire
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - John McClellan France
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - William Davie
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sterling Winters
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sophie A. George
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Anais F. Stenson
- Division of AIDS Research at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
| | - Tanja Jovanovic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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Yancey JR, Ma J, Subramaniam P, Carson CN, McGlade EC, Yurgelun-Todd DA, Renshaw PF. Creatine concentration in the anterior cingulate cortex is associated with greater stress recovery from traumatic events: Preliminary evidence from a US Veteran sample. J Affect Disord 2024; 355:115-121. [PMID: 38548194 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.03.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by a prolonged stress response to potentially life-threatening events long after the event has passed. Understanding factors related to recovery from traumatic life events may inform novel targets for intervention. There is emerging preclinical evidence that creatine (Cr), a molecule critical to brain bioenergetics, may be a neurobiological marker of stress reactivity and recovery. METHOD 25 US Veterans (8 female) completed the Life Events Checklist for DSM-5, which assessed different types of traumatic events. Veterans were also asked to rate the subjective stress of each traumatic event on a 1-10 scale currently (Current Stress) and at the time the event occurred (Past Stress). Stress recovery was quantified as the difference between Current and Past Stress. Current PTSD symptoms were also assessed using the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5. Cr concentrations in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) were measured in the anterior cingulate cortex using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS). RESULTS Higher levels of Cr were associated with self-reported stress recovery from participants' most traumatic life event. Cr was not related to number of different types of traumatic life events or current PTSD symptoms. LIMITATIONS The sample size was relatively small. Stress recovery was measured via retrospective self-report. Future experimental work in humans should clarify the protective role of Cr in recovery from trauma. CONCLUSIONS ACC concentrations of Cr may be an important neurochemical factor related to stress recovery. Future work should investigate Cr as a possible protective factor against the effects of traumatic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Yancey
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America; Hunstman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States of America.
| | - Jiyoung Ma
- Hunstman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - Punitha Subramaniam
- Hunstman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - Chelsea N Carson
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America; Hunstman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - Erin C McGlade
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America; Hunstman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - Deborah A Yurgelun-Todd
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America; Hunstman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - Perry F Renshaw
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America; Hunstman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, United States of America
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Pratt BA, Krause-Parello CA, Nguyen-Feng VN, Giordano NA, Basin SB, Peterson AL, Walsh P, Siebert AQ, Ruiz R, Kirkland DM, Nolan JP. Mission Alliance Community Engagement Project: Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 on Social Isolation, Loneliness, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Veterans. J Community Health 2024; 49:394-401. [PMID: 38066217 PMCID: PMC10981591 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-023-01314-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
During the Coronavirus disease pandemic, many U.S. veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experienced increased symptomology and worsened mental health and well-being due in part to social isolation and loneliness. The Mission Alliance project explored these ramifications and prioritized critical issues expressed by U.S. veterans and stakeholders (N = 182) during virtual regional meetings (N = 32). Field notes created specifically for this project were recorded and thematically analyzed. Emerging themes included: (1) social isolation: missed opportunities, collapsed social circles, work-life balance, fostering relationships, and evolving health care delivery; (2) loneliness: deteriorated mental health, suffered with PTSD together but alone, looked out for each other, ambivalence toward technology, and strained and broken systems; (3) mental health: sense of chaos, increased demand and decreased access, aggravation, implementation of tools, innovative solutions, fear and loss, and availability of resources; (4) wellbeing: sense of purpose, holistic perspective on well-being, recognition of balance, persisting stigma, redefined pressures, freedom to direct treatment, and reconnection and disconnection. A PTSD-related patient centered outcomes research (PCOR)/comparative effectiveness research (CER) agenda was developed from these themes. Establishment of a veteran and stakeholder network is suggested to support, facilitate, and promote the PTSD-related PCOR/CER agenda. Furthermore, enhancement of opportunities for veterans with PTSD and stakeholders to partner in PCOR/CER is required to develop and conduct projects that lead to PTSD-related comprehensive care of veterans affected by traumatic events with the potential to translate findings to other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth A Pratt
- College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, 3200 College Drive, LA49 228B, Davie, Boca Raton, FL, 33314, USA.
| | - Cheryl A Krause-Parello
- College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, 3200 College Drive, LA49 228B, Davie, Boca Raton, FL, 33314, USA
| | | | | | | | - Alan L Peterson
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Patrick Walsh
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
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Plas X, Bruinsma B, van Lissa CJ, Vermetten E, van Lutterveld R, Geuze E. Long-term trajectories of depressive symptoms in deployed military personnel: A 10-year prospective study. J Affect Disord 2024; 354:702-711. [PMID: 38537760 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.03.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Military missions, especially those involving combat exposure, are associated with an increased risk of depression. Understanding the long-term course of depressive symptoms post-deployment is important to improve decision-making regarding deployment and mental health policies in the military. This study investigates trajectories of depressive symptoms in the Dutch army, exploring the influence of factors such as demographics, early-life trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and deployment stressors. METHODS A cohort of 1032 military men and women deployed to Afghanistan (2005-2008) was studied from pre- to 10 years post-deployment. Depressive and PTSD symptoms were assessed using the Symptom CheckList-90 and the Self-Rating Inventory for PTSD. Demographics, early trauma, and deployment experiences were collected at baseline and after deployment, respectively. Latent Class Growth Analysis was used to explore heterogeneity in trajectories of depressive symptoms over time. RESULTS Four trajectories were found: resilient (65%), intermediate-stable (20%), symptomatic-chronic (9%), and late-onset-increasing (6%). The resilient group experienced fewer deployment stressors, while the symptomatic-chronic group reported more early life traumas. Trajectories with elevated depressive symptoms consistently demonstrated higher PTSD symptoms. LIMITATIONS Potential nonresponse bias and missing information due to the longitudinal design and extensive follow-up times. CONCLUSIONS This study identified multiple trajectories of depressive symptoms in military personnel up to 10 years post-deployment, associated with early trauma, deployment stressors, adverse life events and PTSD symptoms. The prevalence of the resilient trajectory suggests a substantial level of resilience among deployed military personnel. These findings provide valuable insights and a foundation for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xandra Plas
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Utrecht Brain Centre, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Brain Research and Innovation Centre, Ministry of Defence, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Bastiaan Bruinsma
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Utrecht Brain Centre, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Brain Research and Innovation Centre, Ministry of Defence, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Caspar J van Lissa
- Department of Methodology and Statistics, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Eric Vermetten
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Remko van Lutterveld
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Utrecht Brain Centre, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Brain Research and Innovation Centre, Ministry of Defence, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Elbert Geuze
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Utrecht Brain Centre, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Brain Research and Innovation Centre, Ministry of Defence, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Mengin AC, Nourry N, Severac F, Berna F, Bemmouna D, Costache ME, Fritsch A, Frey I, Ligier F, Engel N, Greth P, Khan A, Chauvet-Gelinier JC, Chabridon G, Haffen E, Nicolier M, Zinetti-Bertschy A, Vidailhet P, Weiner L. Efficacy of the my health too online cognitive behavioral therapy program for healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: A randomized controlled trial. Internet Interv 2024; 36:100736. [PMID: 38617386 PMCID: PMC11015127 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2024.100736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Healthcare workers' mental health has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the need for mental health interventions in this population. Online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is efficient to reduce stress and may reach numerous professionals. We developed "MyHealthToo", an online CBT program to help reduce stress among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective The aim of our study is to investigate the efficacy of an online CBT program on stress and mental health conditions among healthcare workers during a health crisis. Methods We performed a multicentric randomized controlled trial among 155 participants allocated either to the experimental or active control group (bibliotherapy). The primary outcome was the decrease of perceived stress scores (PSS-10) post-treatment. Secondary outcomes included depression, insomnia and PTSD symptoms along with self-reported resilience and ruminations. Assessments were scheduled pretreatment, mid-treatment (4 weeks), post-treatment (8 weeks), and at 1-month and 4-months follow-up. Results For both interventions, mean changes on the PSS-10 were significant post-therapy (W8), as at 1-month (W12) and 4-months (W24) follow-ups. The between-group comparison showed no difference at any time point (ps > 0.88). Work-related ruminations significantly decreased in the experimental group with a significant between-group difference at W8 (Δ = -1.83 [-3.57; -0.09], p = 0.04). Posttraumatic stress symptoms significantly decreased in the experimental group with a significant between-group difference at W12 (Δ = -1.41 [-2.68; -0.14], p = 0.03). The decrease in work-related ruminations at W8 mediated the decrease in posttraumatic stress symptoms at W12 (p = 0.048). Conclusion The "MyHealthToo" online CBT intervention may help reduce ruminations about work and posttraumatic stress symptoms among healthcare workers during a major health crisis. Work-related ruminations may represent a relevant target of online interventions to improve mental health among healthcare workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaury C. Mengin
- Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health & Addictology, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- Regional Great East Center for Psychotraumatism, Strasbourg, France
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Medicine, Strasbourg, France
- INSERM U1329, Strasbourg Translational NEuroscience and Psychiatry (STEP), Team Psychiatry, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, France
| | - Nathalie Nourry
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Medicine, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, France
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Service de Pathologies Professionnelles et Médecine du Travail, Strasbourg, France
| | - François Severac
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Département de Santé Publique, GMRC, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Laboratoire de Biostatistique et Informatique Médicale, iCUBE UMR, 7357 Illkirch, France
| | - Fabrice Berna
- Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health & Addictology, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Medicine, Strasbourg, France
- INSERM U1329, Strasbourg Translational NEuroscience and Psychiatry (STEP), Team Psychiatry, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, France
| | - Doha Bemmouna
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Psychology, Strasbourg, France
| | - Mădălina Elena Costache
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Psychology, Strasbourg, France
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Cognitions, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Aurélie Fritsch
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Psychology, Strasbourg, France
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Cognitions, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Isabelle Frey
- Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health & Addictology, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
| | - Fabienne Ligier
- PUPEA, Centre Psychothérapeutique de Nancy, Laxou; EA 4360 APEMAC, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
- Centre Psychothérapeutique de Nancy, Laxou, France
| | - Nadia Engel
- PUPEA, Centre Psychothérapeutique de Nancy, Laxou; EA 4360 APEMAC, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
- Centre Psychothérapeutique de Nancy, Laxou, France
| | - Philippe Greth
- Pôle de Psychiatrie et Santé Mentale du Groupe Hospitalier Mulhouse Sud Alsace, Mulhouse, France
| | - Anastasia Khan
- Pôle de Psychiatrie et Santé Mentale du Groupe Hospitalier Mulhouse Sud Alsace, Mulhouse, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Chauvet-Gelinier
- Service de Psychiatrie Adultes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Dijon-Bourgogne, Unité INSERM LNC-UMR 1231, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Guillaume Chabridon
- Service de Psychiatrie Adultes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Dijon-Bourgogne, Unité INSERM LNC-UMR 1231, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Emmanuel Haffen
- Service de Psychiatrie, CIC-1431 INSERM, CHU de Besançon, Laboratoire de Neurosciences, Université Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Magali Nicolier
- Service de Psychiatrie, CIC-1431 INSERM, CHU de Besançon, Laboratoire de Neurosciences, Université Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Anna Zinetti-Bertschy
- Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health & Addictology, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Psychology, Strasbourg, France
| | - Pierre Vidailhet
- Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health & Addictology, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- Regional Great East Center for Psychotraumatism, Strasbourg, France
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Medicine, Strasbourg, France
- INSERM U1329, Strasbourg Translational NEuroscience and Psychiatry (STEP), Team Psychiatry, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, France
| | - Luisa Weiner
- Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health & Addictology, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- Strasbourg University, Faculty of Psychology, Strasbourg, France
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Cognitions, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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Schwandt ML, Ramchandani VA, Upadhyay J, Ramsden C, Diazgranados N, Goldman D. Pain in alcohol use disorder: Evaluating effects of childhood trauma, perceived stress, and psychological comorbidity. Alcohol 2024; 117:43-54. [PMID: 38537764 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2024.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The relationship between pain and alcohol use disorder (AUD) is complex and bidirectional. The current study examines risk factors for pain in a large comprehensively phenotyped sample including individuals from across the spectrum of alcohol use and misuse. Participants (n = 1101) were drawn from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Natural History Protocol and included treatment-seeking AUD inpatients (AUD+Tx, n = 369), individuals with AUD not seeking treatment (AUD+, n = 161), and individuals without AUD (AUD-, n = 571). General linear models were utilized to test the effects of AUD status, history of childhood trauma exposure, perceived stress, and psychological comorbidity on daily percent time in pain, as well as change in daily percent time in pain across the inpatient stay in AUD+Tx individuals. Overall, 60.2% individuals reported any pain, with a significantly higher prevalence in the AUD+Tx group (82.1%) compared to the AUD+ (56.5%) and AUD- (47.1%) groups. Daily percent time in pain was also highest in the AUD+Tx group (30.2%) and was further increased in those with a history of childhood abuse and comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Years of heavy drinking and craving were also associated with increased percent time in pain in the AUD+Tx group. Percent time in pain decreased following acute withdrawal in the AUD+Tx group but plateaued around 25% just prior to discharge. Individuals seeking inpatient treatment for AUD, especially those with a history of childhood trauma and/or comorbid PTSD, report greater percent time in pain compared to those not seeking treatment and those without AUD. The prolonged experience of pain in abstinent AUD inpatients after the resolution of acute withdrawal may signal the early stages of protracted withdrawal. Integrative treatments targeting pain and other symptoms of protracted withdrawal may be effective in improving overall function in people with severe AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Schwandt
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse (NIAAA), Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - V A Ramchandani
- Human Psychopharmacology Laboratory, NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - J Upadhyay
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - C Ramsden
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - N Diazgranados
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse (NIAAA), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - D Goldman
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse (NIAAA), Bethesda, MD, USA; Laboratory of Neurogenetics, NIAAA, Rockville, MD, USA
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Golmakani MR, Abrari K, Goudarzi I, Khodaparast A, Bagheri F. Protective role of Eugenol against the destructive effects of lead on conditioned fear memory in male rats with post-traumatic stress disorder-related behavioral traits. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2024; 16:395-402. [PMID: 38444813 PMCID: PMC10912844 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a consequence of living in today's stressful society. Patients have difficulty forgetting traumatic events. lead pollution has many effects on the nervous system, one of which is memory and learning disorders. The herbal medicine Eugenol has a beneficial effect on memory. Aim This study aims to investigate the protective effect of Eugenol on lead-induced memory impairments in stressed rats. Methods In the first experiment, the animals were divided into three groups: SPS+Saline, SPS+Pb, and naïve. The SPS+Saline, SPS+Pb groups received normal saline and lead through gavage for 21 days, while the sham group remained untreated. Rats were subjected to the modified single prolonged stress model. Memory tests were conducted one week later, evaluating freezing levels in three consecutive tests over three days. In the second experiment, rats were divided into a SPS+Pb+Saline and three treatment groups. The SPS+Pb+Saline group received daily saline injections, while the other groups received different doses of Eugenol (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg). Memory tests similar to the first experiment were conducted. Results The results showed significantly higher immobility levels in the SPS+Saline and SPS+Pb groups compared to the sham. Additionally, the SPS+Pb group had a significant higher immobility compared to the SPS+Saline group. In the second experiment, the SPS+Pb+EU 25 group showed a significant lower freezing compared to the SPS+Pb+Saline group. Additionally, freezing in the SPS+Pb+EU 50 and SPS+Pb+EU 100 groups was significantly higher than in the SPS+Pb+EU 25 group. The SPS+Pb+EU 50 group showed a significant higher freezing compared to the SPS+Pb+Saline group. Conclusion lead acetate exacerbated memory impairments in stressed rats and Eugenol, particularly at a dose of 25 mg/kg, improved these impairments. Therefore, Eugenol has the potential to partially reduce the negative effects of lead on memory in individuals with PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kataneh Abrari
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Postal Code: 3197937551, Karaj, Iran
| | - Iran Goudarzi
- School of Biology, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran
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van der Velden PG, Contino C, Das M. Data of the multi-wave population-based prospective Victims in Modern Society (VICTIMS) study on potential traumatic events, social support, mental health, coping self-efficacy and services use. Data Brief 2024; 54:110346. [PMID: 38586134 PMCID: PMC10998031 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2024.110346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
We present the data of the first six annual surveys of the large prospective population-based Dutch VICTIMS-study that started in 2018. Each survey systematically examines exposure to potential traumatic events in the past 12 months, including time of event and amount of stress during the event. Furthermore, each survey assesses anxiety and depression symptomatology, lack of social support, physical, mental, work, partner/family, religious, legal, administrative and financial problems, and problem-related services use. Among the by potentially traumatic events (PTEs) affected respondents, current PTSD-symptomatology, social acknowledgement, events-related contacts with various professional, and coping self-efficacy related to the (most stressful) PTE in the past 12 months was examined. This multi-wave study is conducted using the Dutch Longitudinal Internet studies for the Social Sciences panel (LISS panel) that is based on a large traditional probability sample of the Dutch population (16+). People cannot register themselves as a panel member which minimizes the risks of selection bias. Panel members receive a financial compensation for each completed questionnaire, which has a positive effect on the response rate. Households that would otherwise be unable to participate are provided with a simple, remotely managed computer and internet connection. The set-up of the LISS panel in 2007 was funded by the Dutch Research Council and is managed by Centerdata, a non-profit institute housed at the campus of Tilburg University (The Netherlands). The number of invited (adult) panel members for the VICTIM-study varies between 6119 and 7096 across the years, and the response rate varies between 82.4 % and 87.9 %. The data of the VICTIMS-study can efficiently be linked with archived data of all other (past or future) studies conducted with the LISS panel, such as the annual Core studies on Health and Personality, and the 300+ Assembled studies conducted with the LISS panel. This offers unique opportunities for researchers to address numerous research questions related to potential traumatic and stressful life-events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter G. van der Velden
- Tranzo, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, Tilburg 5000 LE, The Netherlands
- Centerdata, PO Box 90153, Tilburg 5000 LE, The Netherlands
| | - Carlo Contino
- Fonds Slachtofferhulp, PO Box 93166, Den Haag 2509 AD, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel Das
- Centerdata, PO Box 90153, Tilburg 5000 LE, The Netherlands
- Tilburg School of Economics and Management, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, Tilburg 5000 LE, The Netherlands
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9
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Arditte Hall KA, McGrory CM, Snelson AM, Pineles SL. The associations between repetitive negative thinking, insomnia symptoms, and sleep quality in adults with a history of trauma. Anxiety Stress Coping 2024; 37:394-405. [PMID: 38425171 DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2024.2324266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and sleep disturbance are highly comorbid and repetitive negative thinking (RNT) is associated with both sleep disturbance and PTSD. However, few studies have examined the association between RNT and sleep disturbance in individuals exposed to trauma, with and without PTSD. METHOD Associations between trait-level and trauma-related RNT, insomnia, and sleep quality were investigated in a trauma-exposed MTurk (N = 342) sample. Additionally, PTSD symptom severity was tested as a moderator of the associations between RNT and insomnia and sleep quality. RESULTS Trait-level RNT predicted poorer sleep quality and greater insomnia, regardless of PTSD severity. Trauma-related RNT was also associated with greater insomnia, though the effect was moderated by PTSD severity such that it was significant for participants with low and moderate, but not severe, PTSD. Both trait- and trauma-related RNT were associated with several specific aspects of sleep quality, including: sleep disturbances, daytime dysfunction, use of sleep medications, sleep onset latency, and subjective sleep quality. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates significant associations linking RNT with insomnia and sleep disturbance in trauma-exposed individuals. Clinically, results suggest that it may be helpful to target both general and trauma-related RNT in sleep interventions for trauma-exposed individuals with insomnia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christopher M McGrory
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alana M Snelson
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Suzanne L Pineles
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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10
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Brandolino A, Biesboer EA, Leissring M, Weber R, Timmer-Murillo S, deRoon-Cassini TA, Schroeder ME. A comparison of the psychometric properties of a person-administered vs. automated screening tool for posttraumatic stress disorder ( PTSD) in traumatically injured patients. Injury 2024; 55:111507. [PMID: 38531719 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2024.111507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma (ACS-CoT) mandated that trauma centers have mental health screening and referral protocols in place by 2023. This study compares the Injured Trauma Survivor Screen (ITSS) and the Automated Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Screen to assess their performance in predicting risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) within the same sample of trauma patients to inform trauma centers' decision when selecting a tool to best fit their current clinical practice. METHODS This was a secondary analysis of three prospective cohort studies of traumatically injured patients (N = 255). The ITSS and Automated EMR Screen were compared using receiver operating characteristic curves to predict risk of subsequent PTSD development. PTSD diagnosis at 6-month follow-up was assessed using the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5. RESULTS Just over half the sample screened positive on the ITSS (57.7%), while 67.8% screened positive on the Automated EMR Screen. The area under the curve (AUC) for the two screens was not significantly different (ITSS AUC = 0.745 versus Automated EMR Screen AUC = 0.694, p = 0.21), similar performance in PTSD risk predication within the same general trauma population. The ITSS and Automated EMR Screen had similar sensitivities (86.5%, 89.2%), and specificities (52.5%, 40.9%) respectively at their recommended cut-off points. CONCLUSION Both screens are psychometrically comparable. Therefore, trauma centers considering screening tools for PTSD risk to comply with the ACS-CoT 2023 mandate should consider their local resources and patient population. Regardless of screen selection, screening must be accompanied by a referral process to address the identified risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Brandolino
- Data Analytics & Informatics, Comprehensive Injury Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States; Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Elise A Biesboer
- Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Morgan Leissring
- Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Rachel Weber
- Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Sydney Timmer-Murillo
- Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Terri A deRoon-Cassini
- Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Mary E Schroeder
- Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
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11
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Ahlbrand R, Wilson A, Woller P, Sachdeva Y, Lai J, Davis N, Wiggins J, Sah R. Sex-specific threat responding and neuronal engagement in carbon dioxide associated fear and extinction: Noradrenergic involvement in female mice. Neurobiol Stress 2024; 30:100617. [PMID: 38433995 PMCID: PMC10907837 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2024.100617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Difficulty in appropriately responding to threats is a key feature of psychiatric disorders, especially fear-related conditions such as panic disorder (PD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Most prior work on threat and fear regulation involves exposure to external threatful cues. However, fear can also be triggered by aversive, within-the-body, sensations. This interoceptive signaling of fear is highly relevant to PD and PTSD but is not well understood, especially in the context of sex. Using female and male mice, the current study investigated fear-associated spontaneous and conditioned behaviors to carbon dioxide (CO2) inhalation, a potent interoceptive threat that induces fear and panic. We also investigated whether behavioral sensitivity to CO2 is associated with delayed PTSD-relevant behaviors. CO2 evoked heterogenous freezing behaviors in both male and female animals. However, active, rearing behavior was significantly reduced in CO2-exposed male but not female mice. Interestingly, behavioral sensitivity to CO2 was associated with compromised fear extinction, independent of sex. However, in comparison to CO2-exposed males, females elicited less freezing and higher rearing during extinction suggesting an engagement of active versus passive defensive coping. Persistent neuronal activation marker ΔFosB immuno-mapping revealed attenuated engagement of infralimbic-prefrontal areas in both sexes but higher activation of brain stem locus coeruleus (LC) area in females. Inter-regional co-activation mapping revealed sex-independent disruptions in the infralimbic-amygdala associations but altered LC associations only in CO2-exposed female mice. Lastly, dopamine β hydroxylase positive (DβH + ve) noradrenergic neuronal cell counts in the LC correlated with freezing and rearing behaviors during CO2 inhalation and extinction only in female but not male mice. Collectively, these data provide evidence for higher active defensive responding to interoceptive threat CO2-associated fear in females that may stem from increased recruitment of the brainstem noradrenergic system. Our findings reveal distinct contributory mechanisms that may promote sex differences in fear and panic associated pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Ahlbrand
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, USA
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Allison Wilson
- Neuroscience Undergraduate Program, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - Patrick Woller
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - Yuv Sachdeva
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - Jayden Lai
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - Nikki Davis
- Neuroscience Undergraduate Program, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - James Wiggins
- Neuroscience Undergraduate Program, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - Renu Sah
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, USA
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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12
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Misitano A, Moro AS, Ferro M, Forresi B. The Dissociative Subtype of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review of the Literature using the Latent Profile Analysis. J Trauma Dissociation 2024; 25:349-365. [PMID: 36062756 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2022.2120155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
A PTSD subtype with dissociative symptoms (D-PTSD) was included in the DSM-5 recognizing the existence of a more severe form of PTSD, associated to past trauma, high comorbidity, and complex clinical management. As research is rapidly growing and results are inconsistent, a better investigation of this subtype is of primary importance. We conducted a systematic review of studies using Latent Profile Analysis to investigate the existence of a D-PTSD subtype. Covariates of D-PTSD were included, to understand additional symptoms, risk factors and comorbidities. The search was performed on PubMed, EBSCOHost, and PTSDPubs according to 2020 PRISMA guidelines. Eligible articles assessed trauma exposure, PTSD symptoms and diagnosis, and dissociation, in adult samples. 13 of 165 articles met the inclusion criteria. All identified a dissociative subtype of PTSD, mainly characterized by higher levels of depersonalization and derealization. D-PTSD profile sometimes presented other dissociative symptoms, such as gaps in awareness and memory, other comorbid disorders, and a history of abuse. Despite some limitations, this review supports the existence of a dissociative subgroup of individuals among those with PTSD. More rigorous studies are needed to clarify these findings and their clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Misitano
- Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Stefano Moro
- Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience and Communication (BNC), Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Mattia Ferro
- Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience and Communication (BNC), Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Forresi
- Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy
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13
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Shrira A, Palgi Y. Age differences in acute stress and PTSD symptoms during the 2023 Israel-Hamas war: Preliminary findings. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 173:111-114. [PMID: 38520844 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Traumatic exposure can result in acute stress symptoms in the immediate aftermath and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms that persist beyond the initial weeks. Both short-term and long-term reactions require research and clinical attention. There is considerable evidence for age differences in PTSD, and older adults frequently present lower rates of PTSD compared to young adults. Much less is known concerning age differences in acute reaction or the extent to which age differences in PTSD are affected by age differences in acute stress. The current study examined acute stress and PTSD symptoms among young and older adult Israelis during the 2023 Israel-Hamas war. A web-based sample of 428 participants (mean age = 48.36 ± 16.29) completed retrospective accounts of pre-war psychological distress and acute stress in the first week of the war and further reported current PTSD symptoms. Rates of elevated levels of acute stress symptoms and probable PTSD were significantly higher among young adults (24.8% and 42.8%, respectively) compared to their older counterparts (3.7% and 13.7%, respectively). Age differences in probable PTSD remained significant even after controlling for other demographics, traumatic exposure, pre-war psychological distress, and acute stress symptoms. These preliminary findings further attest to the impressive resilience manifested by older adults during wartime. Moreover, as age differences in probable PTSD were not fully explained by acute reactions, unique mechanisms may be mobilized by older adults to cope with warfare trauma in the short- and long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Shrira
- Department of Social and Health Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel.
| | - Yuval Palgi
- Department of Gerontology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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14
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Chivu A, Pascal SA, Damborská A, Tomescu MI. EEG Microstates in Mood and Anxiety Disorders: A Meta-analysis. Brain Topogr 2024; 37:357-368. [PMID: 37615799 PMCID: PMC11026263 DOI: 10.1007/s10548-023-00999-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
To reduce the psycho-social burden increasing attention has focused on brain abnormalities in the most prevalent and highly co-occurring neuropsychiatric disorders, such as mood and anxiety. However, high inter-study variability in these patients results in inconsistent and contradictory alterations in the fast temporal dynamics of large-scale networks as measured by EEG microstates. Thus, in this meta-analysis, we aim to investigate the consistency of these changes to better understand possible common neuro-dynamical mechanisms of these disorders.In the systematic search, twelve studies investigating EEG microstate changes in participants with mood and anxiety disorders and individuals with subclinical depression were included in this meta-analysis, adding up to 787 participants.The results suggest that EEG microstates consistently discriminate mood and anxiety impairments from the general population in patients and subclinical states. Specifically, we found a small significant effect size for B microstates in patients compared to healthy controls, with larger effect sizes for increased B presence in unmedicated patients with comorbidity. In a subgroup meta-analysis of ten mood disorder studies, microstate D showed a significant effect size for decreased presence. When investigating only the two anxiety disorder studies, we found a significantly small effect size for the increased microstate A and a medium effect size for decreased microstate E (one study). However, more studies are needed to elucidate whether these findings are diagnostic-specific markers.Results are discussed in relation to the functional meaning of microstates and possible contribution to an explanatory mechanism of overlapping symptomatology of mood and anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Chivu
- CINETic Center, National University of Theatre and Film "I.L. Caragiale" Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Department of Applied Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona A Pascal
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Department of Applied Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alena Damborská
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University and University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
- Multimodal and Functional Neuroimaging Research Group, CEITEC - Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Miralena I Tomescu
- CINETic Center, National University of Theatre and Film "I.L. Caragiale" Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania.
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Department of Psychology, University "Stefan cel Mare" of Suceava, Suceava, Romania.
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Department of Cognitive Sciences, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania.
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15
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Fergerson AK, Karnick A, Caulfield NM, Tennity CL, Capron DW. The Indirect Effects of Proximal Stressors Associated with Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms Severity among Sexually Victimized Sexual Minority Women: A Cross-Sectional Path Analysis. Violence Against Women 2024; 30:1517-1537. [PMID: 36744378 DOI: 10.1177/10778012231153362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sexual minority women (SMW) are at risk for sexual victimization and stressors specifically related to their minority identity (e.g., discrimination). However, SMW experience posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at rates beyond what may be explained by elevated risk for sexual victimization alone. This study aimed to examine the impact of stigma on PTSD symptoms among SMW survivors of sexual victimization. Results indicate that in relation to minority-specific distal stressors (i.e., heterosexist experiences), both minority-specific and general proximal stressors (i.e., internalized heterosexism, negative posttraumatic cognitions) indirectly affected PTSD symptom severity among this cross-sectional sample of sexually victimized SMW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava K Fergerson
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Aleksandrs Karnick
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Nicole M Caulfield
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Cassidy L Tennity
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Daniel W Capron
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
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16
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Théorêt V, Hébert É, Hébert M. Investigating the role of alexithymia in the association between cumulative childhood maltreatment and teen dating violence victimization. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 173:192-199. [PMID: 38547741 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood maltreatment is increasingly recognized as an important risk factor for teen dating violence (TDV) victimization. However, far too little research has studied the mechanisms that could explain this higher risk of revictimization. The present study investigated the role of alexithymia in the association between cumulative childhood maltreatment, TDV victimization occurrence and chronicity, and TDV-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. METHODS A total of 2780 adolescents, aged 13 to 19, completed measures of childhood maltreatment and alexithymia at Time 1 and TDV victimization and TDV-related PTSD symptoms at Time 2 (6 months later). Two mediational models were tested to examine the role of alexithymia as a risk factor for revictimization. One model assessed TDV occurrence as an outcome, while the other explored TDV chronicity and TDV-related PTSD symptoms as outcomes. RESULTS Findings suggest that cumulative childhood maltreatment is associated with an increased probability of TDV occurrence through alexithymia. Cumulative childhood maltreatment and alexithymia are also associated with TDV chronicity and TDV-related PTSD symptoms. Notably, cumulative childhood maltreatment is associated with higher levels of alexithymia among adolescent victims of TDV, which, in turn, predicts higher TDV chronicity and TDV-related PTSD symptoms. LIMITATIONS This study relied on abbreviated measures and did not include all forms of child maltreatment (e.g., emotional and physical neglect). CONCLUSIONS Promoting emotional awareness and identification among youth victims of child maltreatment could reduce the risk of TDV occurrence, TDV chronicity, and TDV-related PTSD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Théorêt
- School of Criminology, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Élizabeth Hébert
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Martine Hébert
- Canada Research Chair in Interpersonal Traumas and Resilience, Canada; Department of Sexology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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17
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Kline AC, Harlé KM, Panza KE, Nichter B, Lyons R, Pitts M, Haller M, Allard CB, Capone C, Norman SB. Changes in guilt cognitions mediate the effect of trauma-informed guilt reduction therapy on PTSD and depression outcomes. J Clin Psychol 2024; 80:1147-1160. [PMID: 38340354 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Trauma-informed guilt reduction therapy (TrIGR), a six-session cognitive behavioral therapy targeting trauma-related guilt and distress, reduces guilt and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, yet little is known regarding how and why TrIGR may be effective. METHOD This study examined treatment-related changes in avoidant coping and trauma-related guilt cognitions as possible mediators of treatment effects on PTSD and depression outcomes at 3- and 6-month follow-up. Data were from a randomized controlled trial for treatment of trauma-related guilt comparing TrIGR and supportive care therapy among 145 post-9/11 US veterans (Mage = 39.2 [8.1], 93.8% male). RESULTS At pretreatment, most (86%) met PTSD criteria. Intent to treat analyses using parallel mediation models indicated changes in guilt cognitions, but not avoidant coping, mediated the effect of TrIGR on reducing PTSD severity at 3-month (a × b = -0.15, p < 0.01, 95% CI: [-0.24 to -0.06], p = 0.001) and 6-month (a × b = -0.17, 95% CI: [-0.26 to -0.07], p = 0.001) follow-up. Similarly, changes in guilt cognitions, but not avoidant coping, mediated the effect of TrIGR on reducing depression severity at 3-month (a × b = -0.10, 95% CI: [-0.18 to -0.02], p = 0.02) and 6-month (a × b = -0.11, 95% CI: [-0.20 to -0.03], p = 0.01) follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Compared to guilt cognitions, changes in avoidant coping were less integral to downstream PTSD and depression symptom reduction. Guilt cognition change may be a salient active ingredient of PTSD and depression treatment for those with trauma-related guilt and a key therapy element to which providers should be attuned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander C Kline
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Katia M Harlé
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Kaitlyn E Panza
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | | | - Robert Lyons
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Michelle Pitts
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Moira Haller
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Carolyn B Allard
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Christy Capone
- Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Sonya B Norman
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, California, USA
- National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, White River Junction, Vermont, USA
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18
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Porter KE, Stein MB, Grau PP, Kim HM, Powell C, Hoge CW, Venners MR, Smith ER, Martis B, Simon NM, Liberzon I, Rauch SAM. Impact of PTSD treatment on postconcussive symptoms in veterans: A comparison of sertraline, prolonged exposure, and their combination. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 173:64-70. [PMID: 38503135 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Many Veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan struggle with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the effects of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Some people with a history of TBI report a constellation of somatic, cognitive, and emotional complaints that are often referred to as postconcussive symptoms (PCS). Research suggests these symptoms may not be specific to TBI. This study examined the impact of PTSD treatment on PCS in combat Veterans seeking treatment for PTSD. As part of a larger randomized control trial, 198 Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation New Dawn (OIF/OEF/OND) Veterans with PTSD received Prolonged Exposure Therapy, sertraline, or the combination. Potential deployment related TBI, PCS, PTSD and depression symptoms were assessed throughout treatment. Linear mixed models were used to predict PCS change over time across the full sample and treatment arms, and the association of change in PTSD and depression symptoms on PCS was also examined. Patterns of change for the full sample and the subsample of those who reported a head injury were examined. Results showed that PCS decreased with treatment. There were no significant differences across treatments. No significant differences were found in the pattern of symptom change based on TBI screening status. Shifts in PCS were predicted by change PTSD and depression. Results suggest that PCS reduced with PTSD treatment in this population and are related to shift in depression and PTSD severity, further supporting that reported PCS symptoms may be better understood as non-specific symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E Porter
- Mental Health Service Line, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Murray B Stein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Mental Health Service Care VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Peter P Grau
- Mental Health Service Line, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; VA Serious Mental Illness Treatment Resource and Evaluation Center (SMITREC), Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - H Myra Kim
- University of Michigan, Consulting for Statistics, Computing and Analytics Research, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Corey Powell
- University of Michigan, Consulting for Statistics, Computing and Analytics Research, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Charles W Hoge
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Margaret R Venners
- National Center for PTSD, Dissemination and Training Division, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, Menlo, Park, CA, USA; Research Service Line, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Erin R Smith
- Mental Health Service Line, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Brian Martis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Mental Health Service Care VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Naomi M Simon
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Israel Liberzon
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Science, Texas A&M Health, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Sheila A M Rauch
- Research Service Line, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA; Mental Health Service Line, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA; Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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19
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Chen JA, Shofer J, Barnes ML, Livingston WS, Upham M, Simpson TL. Military Sexual Trauma As a Risk Factor for Treatment Non-Response from an Online, Self-Management Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Treatment for Women Veterans. J Interpers Violence 2024; 39:2214-2237. [PMID: 38073465 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231216722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Women veterans are exposed to high rates of trauma, including military sexual trauma (MST), and face unique barriers to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment. Telehealth interventions that are tailored to women veterans' unique lived experiences may improve treatment engagement and outcomes. It is important to ascertain how beneficial new telehealth interventions are in the context of different patient characteristics and trauma types, particularly for lower-intensity telehealth interventions (e.g., web-based programs or apps). This secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial conducted in a sample of 102 women veterans examines predictors of treatment response to a self-management, telehealth intervention for PTSD: Delivery of Self Training and Education for Stressful Situations-Women Veterans (DESTRESS-WV). In the trial, women veterans with PTSD received either an online cognitive behavioral intervention with phone coaching, or phone monitoring alone. We examined associations between baseline patient characteristics (demographics, trauma types, and clinical symptoms) and treatment outcome at post-treatment, 3 months, and 6 months, focusing on the association between treatment outcome and MST. Our primary outcomes were changes in PTSD (PTSD Symptom Checklist, Version 5, PCL-5) and depression (8-item Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-8) in the full sample, adjusting for treatment condition. Women veterans who identified MST as the primary trauma for which they were seeking PTSD treatment experienced a nearly nine-point lesser improvement on the PCL-5 than those seeking PTSD treatment for other trauma types (e.g., childhood abuse, combat trauma; p = .0073). Similar patterns were found for depression symptoms. To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the association between trauma type and treatment outcomes within the context of a self-management, telehealth treatment for PTSD. While the study was not powered to examine differential treatment response for patient subgroups, our exploratory findings suggest that gaps remain in providing effective PTSD care for women veterans who experienced MST.Trial registration: The trial and analysis plan were preregistered in ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT02917447).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Chen
- VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jane Shofer
- VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Whitney S Livingston
- National Center for PTSD Women's Health Sciences Division at VA Boston Healthcare System, Jamaica Plain, MA, USA
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Tracy L Simpson
- VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Center of Excellence in Substance Addiction Treatment & Education, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, USA
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20
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Hooshyari Z, Mohammadi MR, Salmanian M, Ahmadi N, Khaleghi A, Garakani A. Lifetime prevalence, comorbidities, and Sociodemographic predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD): the National Epidemiology of Iranian Children and adolescents Psychiatric disorders (IRCAP). Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-024-02441-7. [PMID: 38656607 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02441-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to (a) evaluate the lifetime prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) according to sociodemographic characteristics, (b) determine sociodemographic factors associated with PTSD, (c) estimate the lifetime prevalence rates of comorbidities by age and gender, and (d) assess the proportion of traumatic events in the non-PTSD sample and the PTSD sample, according to gender. METHODS The data used for the present study were obtained from the IRCAP study which was a cross-sectional, community-based study on 29,250 children and adolescents aged 6-18 years from all provinces of Iran, which was done using multistage cluster sampling. Trained psychologists conducted diagnostic interviews with parents, children, and adolescents using the Persian version of the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children-Present and Lifetime Version (K-SADS-PL). RESULTS In this study, the prevalence of PTSD across the sample population was 0.6% (95% CI, 0.5-0.7%). Higher rates of PTSD were observed among girls (0.7%, CI 0.5-0.8%), adolescents aged 15-18 years (0.8%, CI 0.6-1.0%), and participants who had unemployed (1.5%, CI 0.8-2.8%), or farmer fathers (1.1%, CI 0.5-2.5%). Of the participants with PTSD, 65.1% met the criteria for at least one other psychiatric disorder. PTSD had a high rate of comorbidity with oppositional defiant disorder (22.9%, CI 17.5-29.4%), generalized anxiety disorder (20.8%, CI 15.7-27.1%), separation anxiety disorder (20.3%, CI 15.2-26.6%), and major depressive disorder (19.8%, CI 14.8-26.0%). We found 9.5% of non-PTSD sample experienced at least one traumatic event. Witness to domestic violence was the most common traumatic event experienced by 32.8% of PTSD sample. CONCLUSION Our results in the prevalence, comorbidities, and sociodemographic factors associated with PTSD supported findings of previous studies that used a structured diagnostic interview. It is recommended to use purposive sampling and to investigate comorbidities of PTSD and type of traumatic events in a large clinical population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Hooshyari
- School of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Mohammadi
- Psychiatry and Psychology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Salmanian
- Psychiatry and Psychology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Nastaran Ahmadi
- Yazd Cardiovascular Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ali Khaleghi
- Psychiatry and Psychology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Garakani
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
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21
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Gielkens EMJ, Sobczak S, Gerrits N, Rosowsky E, Stas L, Rossi G, van Alphen SPJ. Feasibility of EMDR toward Personality Functioning in Older Adults with PTSD. Clin Gerontol 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38656832 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2024.2344793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Severe posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in older adults (≥60 years) has been found to be associated with maladaptive personality functioning and personality disorders (PD). Emerging evidence in adults supports that reprocessing adverse events with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) could improve personality functioning and reduce full PDdiagnosis. METHODS A multicenterfeasibilitystudy in 24 older PTSD-patients receiving weekly EMDR-sessions for either 3, 6 or 9 months. A linear-mixed-model was used with personality functioning (SIPP-SF) as dependent variable and time, PTSD-severity (CAPS-5), and "othertreatment" as predictor variables. Secondary, pre- and posttreatment percentages were calculated for the PDspresence. RESULTS Symptom changes over time showed a significant influence of CAPS-5 on SIPP-SF (b = -1.40, 95% CI=[-2.48 to -0.33], p = .012), no significant effect of time for total SIPP-SF, and a significant improvement of SIPP-SF "identityintegration"-scale over time (b = 9.20, 95% CI=[0.97-17.42], p = .029). There was a marginal significant effect of "othertreatment" (b = 8.42, 95% CI=[-0.30-17.13], p = .058). There was 31% full PDs-decrease. CONCLUSIONS Observed improvements in personality functioning from pre to post EMDRtreatment were explained by PTSD-severity. Identityintegration improved significantly over time. Results suggest that participants with "othertreatment" showed more severe baseline-pathology and thus lower personality functioning. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS EMDR, in addition to being a feasible treatment option for older adults with PTSD, improves personality functioning and reduces the presence of PDs over time.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M J Gielkens
- Clinical center of excellence for older adults with personality disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Centre, Heerlen-Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Psychology, Personality and Psychopathology Research Group (PEPS), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sjacko Sobczak
- Clinical center of excellence for older adults with personality disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Centre, Heerlen-Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Rotterdam Research Center Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nienke Gerrits
- Clinical center of excellence for older adults with personality disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Centre, Heerlen-Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Erlene Rosowsky
- William James College, Department of Clinical Psychology, Newton, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lara Stas
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Biostatistics and Medical Informatics Research Group, Brussels, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Core Facility - Support for Quantitative and Qualitative Research (SQUARE), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gina Rossi
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Psychology, Personality and Psychopathology Research Group (PEPS), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sebastiaan P J van Alphen
- Clinical center of excellence for older adults with personality disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Centre, Heerlen-Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Psychology, Personality and Psychopathology Research Group (PEPS), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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22
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Nhan ER, Williamson-Raun AR, Chan R, Yang JP. Ethnic Identity Protects and Internalized Racism Harms Health and Coping in Asian Americans Following COVID-19 Discrimination: A Mixed-Methods Study. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-024-02000-5. [PMID: 38649615 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-024-02000-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Mechanisms underlying the link between COVID-19 anti-Asian racial discrimination and psychological health are underexplored. This mixed-methods study examined the moderating effects of ethnic identity and internalized racism on the relationship between COVID discrimination and behavioral health outcomes among Asian Americans. We hypothesized that individuals with lower ethnic identity and higher internalized racism levels would demonstrate more adverse outcomes, including worsened psychological trauma and identity-avoidant behaviors, post-discrimination. Asian American participants (N = 215) responded to a Qualtrics survey, including qualitative and quantitative questions on COVID-related racism experiences, ethnic identity, internalized racism, trauma, and other subsequent effects. For qualitative analysis, participants were sorted into four subgroups defined by low- and/or high-ethnic identity and internalized racism scores, and we explored themes in participant reports of identity-related coping effects after racism. We additionally used hierarchical multiple regression analyses to quantitatively assess the moderating impact of ethnic identity and internalized racism on the relationship between COVID discrimination and trauma. Analyses revealed no moderating effects from the two identity variables. However, qualitative analyses identified themes of identity-promoting and identity-avoidant behavioral responses, and moderation analyses revealed that ethnic identity had a main effect on mitigating racial trauma, while internalized racism exacerbated both racial trauma and PTSD levels. This study identified ethnic identity and internalized racism as underlying causes to behavioral health outcomes for Asian Americans. Results offer mental health providers serving Asian clients insight into identity-related influences to help optimize culturally appropriate interventions and support initiatives of identity promotion to foster community engagement for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Nhan
- Department of Psychology, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Institute for Clinical and Economic Review, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Aisha R Williamson-Raun
- Department of Psychology, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- National Alliance On Mental Illness, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Rachel Chan
- Department of Psychology, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Joyce P Yang
- Department of Psychology, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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23
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Bommaraju S, Dhokne MD, Arun EV, Srinivasan K, Sharma SS, Datusalia AK. An insight into crosstalk among multiple signalling pathways contributing to the pathophysiology of PTSD and depressive disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 131:110943. [PMID: 38228244 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depressive disorders represent two significant mental health challenges with substantial global prevalence. These are debilitating conditions characterized by persistent, often comorbid, symptoms that severely impact an individual's quality of life. Both PTSD and depressive disorders are often precipitated by exposure to traumatic events or chronic stress. The profound impact of PTSD and depressive disorders on individuals and society necessitates a comprehensive exploration of their shared and distinct pathophysiological features. Although the activation of the stress system is essential for maintaining homeostasis, the ability to recover from it after diminishing the threat stimulus is also equally important. However, little is known about the main reasons for individuals' differential susceptibility to external stressful stimuli. The solution to this question can be found by delving into the interplay of stress with the cognitive and emotional processing of traumatic incidents at the molecular level. Evidence suggests that dysregulation in these signalling cascades may contribute to the persistence and severity of PTSD and depressive symptoms. The treatment strategies available for this disorder are antidepressants, which have shown good efficiency in normalizing symptom severity; however, their efficacy is limited in most individuals. This calls for the exploration and development of innovative medications to address the treatment of PTSD. This review delves into the intricate crosstalk among multiple signalling pathways implicated in the development and manifestation of these mental health conditions. By unravelling the complexities of crosstalk among multiple signalling pathways, this review aims to contribute to the broader knowledge base, providing insights that could inform the development of targeted interventions for individuals grappling with the challenges of PTSD and depressive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumadhura Bommaraju
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh (UP) 226002, India
| | - Mrunali D Dhokne
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh (UP) 226002, India
| | - E V Arun
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh (UP) 226002, India
| | - Krishnamoorthy Srinivasan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), SAS Nagar, Punjab 160062, India
| | - Shyam Sunder Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), SAS Nagar, Punjab 160062, India
| | - Ashok Kumar Datusalia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh (UP) 226002, India; Department of Regulatory Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh (UP) 226002, India.
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24
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Koetsier T, Apeldoorn J, Nugter A. Working mechanisms of imagery rescripting (ImRs) in adult patients with childhood-related PTSD: a pilot study. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2339702. [PMID: 38629412 PMCID: PMC11025401 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2024.2339702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Imagery rescripting (ImRs) has shown to be an effective treatment for posttraumatic stress disorders (PTSD) resulting from childhood-related trauma. The current theory is that the change of meaning of the trauma memory is central to the treatment. Several authors have suggested that the expression of needs, feelings and actions may act as potential healing factors, but little specific research aimed at (in)validating this hypothesis has been done so far.Objective: In this study we investigated to what extent the expression of inhibited action tendencies and the fulfilling of needs lead to the reduction of PTSD symptoms in clients with early childhood trauma.Method: Recordings of 249 therapy sessions of 24 ImRs treatments were rated with an observation instrument developed for this purpose, after which the scores were related to pre and posttreatment symptoms, assessed with the Impact of Events Scale-Revised (IES-R).Results: Scores on the IES-R decreased from pretreatment to posttreatment. The two subscales of the NATS (At-scale and N-scale)significantly predicted the posttreatment scores on the IES-R after controlling for the influence of pretreatment IES-R scores: the better the expression of inhibited action tendencies and the better the fulfilling of needs, the lower the symptoms after treatment.Conclusions: This pilot study on the underlying mechanisms of ImRs in PTSD treatment has shown that the expression of action tendencies and fulfilling basic needs during ImRs are associated with a decrease in PTSD symptoms after treatment, and that actions and basic needs cannot be viewed separately. Follow-up research could focus on which of the six domains of the Needs and Action tendencies Scale (NATS) has the greatest effect on the reduction of PTSD symptoms. With this information we can further improve the ImRs protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Annet Nugter
- GGZ Noord-Holland-Noord, NP Hoorn, the Netherlands
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25
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Kuck S, Ehring T, Dyer A, Pittig A, Peikenkamp J, Morina N, Alpers GW, Krüger-Gottschalk A. Sudden gains in routine clinical care: application of a permutation test for trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2335796. [PMID: 38629400 PMCID: PMC11025404 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2024.2335796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Sudden gains, defined as large and stable improvements of psychopathological symptoms, are a ubiquitous phenomenon in psychotherapy. They have been shown to occur across several clinical contexts and to be associated with better short-term and long-term treatment outcome. However, the approach of sudden gains has been criticized for its tautological character: sudden gains are included in the computation of treatment outcomes, ultimately resulting in a circular conclusion. Furthermore, some authors criticize sudden gains as merely being random fluctuations.Objective: Use of efficient methods to evaluate whether the amount of sudden gains in a given sample lies above chance level.Method: We used permutation tests in a sample of 85 patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treated with trauma-focused cognitive behaviour therapy in routine clinical care. Scores of self-reported PTSD symptom severity were permuted 10.000 times within sessions and between participants to receive a random distribution.Results: Altogether, 18 participants showed a total of 24 sudden gains within the first 20 sessions. The permutation test yielded that the frequency of sudden gains was not beyond chance level. No significant predictors of sudden gains were identified and sudden gains in general were not predictive of treatment outcome. However, subjects with early sudden gains had a significantly lower symptom severity after treatment.Conclusions: Our data suggest that a significant proportion of sudden gains are due to chance. Further research is needed on the differential effects of early and late sudden gains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sascha Kuck
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Thomas Ehring
- Department of Psychology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anne Dyer
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Andre Pittig
- Institute of Psychology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Jana Peikenkamp
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Nexhmedin Morina
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Georg W. Alpers
- School of Social Sciences, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
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26
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Baas MAM, Stramrood CAI, Molenaar JE, van Baar PM, Vanhommerig JW, van Pampus MG. Continuing the conversation: a cross-sectional study about the effects of work-related adverse events on the mental health of Dutch (resident) obstetrician-gynaecologists (ObGyns). BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:286. [PMID: 38627649 PMCID: PMC11022402 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05678-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obstetrician-Gynaecologists (ObGyns) frequently face work-related adverse events such as severe obstetric complications and maternal or neonatal deaths. In 2014, the WATER-1 study showed that ObGyns are at risk of developing work-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), while many hospitals lacked a professional support system. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the current prevalence of work-related traumatic events and mental health problems among Dutch ObGyns, as well as to examine the current and desired support. METHODS In 2022, an online questionnaire was sent to all members of the Dutch Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (NVOG), including resident and attending ObGyns. The survey included questions about experienced work-related events, current and desired coping strategies, and three validated screening questionnaires for anxiety, depression, and PTSD (HADS, TSQ, and PCL-5). RESULTS The response rate was 18.8% and 343 questionnaires were included in the analysis. Of the respondents, 93.9% had experienced at least one work-related adverse event, 20.1% had faced a complaint from the national disciplinary board, and 49.4% had considered leaving the profession at any moment in their career. The prevalence rates of clinically relevant anxiety, depression, and psychological distress were 14.3, 4.4, and 15.7%, respectively. The prevalence of work-related PTSD was 0.9% according to DSM-IV and 1.2% according to DSM-5. More than half of the respondents (61.3%) reported the presence of a structured support protocol or approach in their department or hospital, and almost all respondents (92.6%) rated it as sufficient. CONCLUSIONS The percentages of anxiety, depression, psychological distress and PTSD are comparable to the similar study performed in 2014. Most Dutch ObGyns experience adverse events at work, which can be perceived as traumatic and, in certain cases, may lead to the development of PTSD. Structured support after adverse work-related events is now available in almost two-thirds of workplaces, and was mostly experienced as good. Despite substantial improvements in the availability and satisfaction of professional support after work-related adverse events, the prevalence rates of mental problems remain considerable, and it is imperative to sustain conversation about the mental well-being of ObGyns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie A M Baas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, OLVG, 1090 HM, Amsterdam, PO box 95500, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Groningen, 9700 RB, Groningen, PO box 30.001, The Netherlands
| | - Claire A I Stramrood
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, OLVG, 1090 HM, Amsterdam, PO box 95500, The Netherlands
- Beval Beter, 1000 AH, Amsterdam, PO box 345, The Netherlands
| | - Jolijn E Molenaar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, OLVG, 1090 HM, Amsterdam, PO box 95500, The Netherlands
| | - Petra M van Baar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, OLVG, 1090 HM, Amsterdam, PO box 95500, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joost W Vanhommerig
- Department of Research and Epidemiology, OLVG, 1090 HM, Amsterdam, PO box 95500, The Netherlands
| | - Maria G van Pampus
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, OLVG, 1090 HM, Amsterdam, PO box 95500, The Netherlands.
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Wojcik KD, Cox DW, Kealy D, Zumbo B. The Effect of Cognitive Fusion on Change in PTSD and Depression Symptom Severity in Veterans Engaged in Group Psychotherapy. J Cogn Psychother 2024; 38:169-184. [PMID: 38631715 DOI: 10.1891/jcp-2022-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Cognitive fusion occurs when people experience their thoughts as literally true and allow them to dictate behavior. Fusion has been shown to be associated with increased symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression; however, the association between change in cognitive fusion, PTSD, and depression symptoms has been relatively uninvestigated. Our study aims to examine the associations between PTSD, depression symptoms, and cognitive fusion in Canadian veterans from pre- to post-treatment. Clients (N = 287) completed measures of PTSD symptom severity, depression symptom severity, and cognitive fusion at pre- and post-treatment. Our results supported that pretreatment PTSD and depression symptom severity were found to be negatively associated with changes in pre- to post-treatment cognitive fusion, while pretreatment cognitive fusion was not associated with changes in depression or PTSD symptoms. Furthermore, pretreatment depression symptoms predicted pre- to post-treatment changes in PTSD symptoms. However, pretreatment PTSD symptoms did not predict changes in depression symptoms. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the bidirectional associations between PTSD, depression, and cognitive fusion. Furthermore, our results are indicative of PTSD and depression symptoms playing a role in the change in cognitive fusion (e.g., defusion) and of depression playing a larger role in the maintenance of PTSD symptoms. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine D Wojcik
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Daniel W Cox
- Counselling Psychology Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David Kealy
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Bruno Zumbo
- Measurement, Evaluation, and Research Methodology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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28
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Zhang F, Huang C, Yan W, Ouyang H, Liu W. Attentional bias modification and attention control training in PTSD: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2024; 14:20451253241243260. [PMID: 38633357 PMCID: PMC11022678 DOI: 10.1177/20451253241243260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cognitive models of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) highlighted the effect of maladaptive cognitive processing in the development and maintenance of PTSD. PTSD is related to attentional bias (AB) toward threatening stimuli and greater attentional bias variability (ABV). Attentional bias modification (ABM) and attention control training (ACT) have demonstrated the effect of improving PTSD, but the results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are controversial. Objectives The current study aimed to evaluate the extent of evidence supporting the efficacy of ABM in the treatment of PTSD. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods We searched PUBMED, PsycINFO, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for articles published between 1980 and 2022. RCTs of ABM for adult participants with PTSD symptoms were identified. The primary outcome was changes in PTSD severity, and the second outcome was changes in AB and ABV. Trial quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Publication bias was assessed using the Doi plot and Luis Furuya-Kanamori (LFK) index. Results Eight RCTs comparing the effect of ABM to ACT were included in the review, and six studies were meta-analyzed. Meta-analysis favored ACT in improving PTSD symptoms and ABV, and the effect size was large. ABM and ACT demonstrated similar effects in improving AB. Conclusion ACT should not only be seen as a control training condition but also has therapeutic values. However, since the current meta-analysis only included a limited number of studies, further research was still needed to examine the clinical value of ACT in PTSD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhang
- Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- The Emotion and Cognition Lab, Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenwei Huang
- Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjie Yan
- Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- The Emotion and Cognition Lab, Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Ouyang
- Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, #800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
- The Emotion and Cognition Lab, Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- The Emotion and Cognition Lab, Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weizhi Liu
- Lab for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, #800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
- The Emotion and Cognition Lab, Faculty of Psychology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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Farmer HF, Byrne JEM, Mussap AJ. The Role of Gender and Sexuality in the Experience, Internalization, and Mental Health Correlates of Sexual Victimization Stigma. J Interpers Violence 2024:8862605241246798. [PMID: 38624136 DOI: 10.1177/08862605241246798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The stigma associated with sexual victimization (SV) can add to the psychological burden on survivors. We compared experiences of SV and SV stigma by survivor gender and sexuality and evaluated the relevance of public and internalized sources of this stigma to their psychological functioning. An online survey containing measures of SV type (sexual harassment and assault), public SV stigma, internalized SV stigma (self-blame, self-shame, anticipated-shame), and psychological functioning (depression, anxiety, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD] symptomatology) was completed by 877 women and 211 men aged 18 to 66 years (M = 30.2, SD = 8.06), of whom 73.9% were heterosexual and 26.1% identified as a sexual minority (same-sex-attracted, bisexual, pansexual, or asexual). Sexual harassment and assault were more prevalent in women and sexual minority men. Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) with age and SV frequency as covariates also revealed poorer psychological functioning in sexual minority men, and higher levels of SV stigma in sexual minority women and men. Multigroup path analyses further showed that exposure to public stigma was associated with poorer psychological functioning, that internalized stigma partly mediated these associations, and that the magnitude of the associations (particularly those involving self-shame and anticipated shame) was often greater in men and sexual minorities. The results add to our understanding of the role of gender and sexuality in the experience, internalization, and psychological impact of SV-related stigma on survivors. The results also highlight the need for societal shifts toward acknowledging and validating experiences of SV in men and sexual minorities, alongside women, and the development of intersectionality-informed interventions for SV stigma in survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jamie E M Byrne
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Krupp KT, Yaeger JDW, Ledesma LJ, Withanage MHH, Gale JJ, Howe CB, Allen TJ, Sathyanesan M, Newton SS, Summers CH. Single administration of a psychedelic [(R)-DOI] influences coping strategies to an escapable social stress. Neuropharmacology 2024; 252:109949. [PMID: 38636726 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds have potentially rapid, long-lasting anxiolytic, antidepressive and anti-inflammatory effects. We investigated whether the psychedelic compound (R)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine [(R)-DOI], a selective 5-HT2A receptor partial agonist, decreases stress-related behavior in male mice exposed to repeated social aggression. Additionally, we explored the likelihood that these behavioral changes are related to anti-inflammatory properties of [(R)-DOI]. Animals were subjected to the Stress Alternatives Model (SAM), an escapable social stress paradigm in which animals develop reactive coping strategies - remaining in the SAM arena (Stay) with a social aggressor, or dynamically initiated stress coping strategies that involve utilizing the escape holes (Escape) to avoid aggression. Mice expressing these behavioral phenotypes display behaviors like those in other social aggression models that separate animals into stress-vulnerable (as for Stay) or stress-resilient (as for Escape) groups, which have been shown to have distinct inflammatory responses to social stress. These results show that Stay animals have heightened cytokine gene expression, and both Stay and Escape mice exhibit plasma and neural concentrations of the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) compared to unstressed control mice. Additionally, these results suggest that a single administration of (R)-DOI to Stay animals in low doses, can increase stress coping strategies such as increasing attention to the escape route, promoting escape behavior, and reducing freezing during socially aggressive interaction in the SAM. Lower single doses of (R)-DOI, in addition to shifting behavior to suggest anxiolytic effects, also concomitantly reduce plasma and limbic brain levels of the inflammatory cytokine TNFα.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin T Krupp
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, 57069, USA; Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| | - Jazmine D W Yaeger
- Veterans Affairs Research Service, Sioux Falls VA Health Care System, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA; Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, 57104, USA
| | - Leighton J Ledesma
- Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA; Veterans Affairs Research Service, Sioux Falls VA Health Care System, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA
| | | | - J J Gale
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, 57069, USA; Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| | - Chase B Howe
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, 57069, USA
| | - Trevor J Allen
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, 57069, USA
| | - Monica Sathyanesan
- Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| | - Samuel S Newton
- Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| | - Cliff H Summers
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, 57069, USA; Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA; Veterans Affairs Research Service, Sioux Falls VA Health Care System, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA.
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Li J, Jin Y, Xu S, Yu Y, Wilson A, Chen C, Wang Y. Hazardous drinking in young adults with co-occurring PTSD and psychosis symptoms: A network analysis. J Affect Disord 2024; 351:588-597. [PMID: 38307134 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing literature suggests the co-occurrence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychosis among young adults is related to hazardous drinking. However, the influencing mechanisms among these co-occurrences are inconclusive. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the symptomatic associations between PTSD, psychosis, and hazardous drinking. METHODS This study included 96,218 young Chinese adults, divided into three groups (PTSD, Psychosis, and co-occurring PTSD-Psychosis). PTSD, psychosis, and hazardous drinking were measured by the ten-item Trauma Screening Questionnaire, the seven-item Psychosis Screener Scale, and the four-item Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, respectively. Network analysis was utilized to explore and compare the symptomatic correlation between PTSD, psychosis, and hazardous drinking. RESULTS In this study, the most crucial symptom (both central and bridge) was "delusion of control" among the three networks. Hazardous drinking was another main bridge symptom. Compared to the Psychosis group and the co-occurring PTSD-Psychosis group, "Delusion of reference or persecution" to "Grandiose delusion" was the strongest edge in "the network structure of the PTSD group". LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional study cannot determine the causal relationship. Applying self-reporting questionnaires may cause inherent bias. Young adult participants limited the generalization of the results to other groups. CONCLUSIONS Among the three network structures, delusion of control was the most crucial symptom, and hazardous drinking was another bridge symptom; the edge of delusion of reference or persecution and grandiose delusion was strongest in the PTSD group's network. Efforts should be taken to develop diverse targeted interventions for these core symptoms to relieve PTSD, psychosis, and hazardous drinking in young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Li
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China; School of Psychology, Center for Studies of Psychological Application, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Jin
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Shicun Xu
- Northeast Asian Research Center, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yi Yu
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China; School of Psychology, Center for Studies of Psychological Application, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Amanda Wilson
- Division of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Chang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China; School of Psychology, Center for Studies of Psychological Application, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China; School of Psychology, Center for Studies of Psychological Application, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.
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Mazaheri M, Radahmadi M, Sharifi MR. Effects of chronic social equality and inequality conditions on passive avoidance memory and PTSD-like behaviors in rats under chronic empathic stress. Int J Neurosci 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38598305 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2024.2341913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Social inequality conditions induce aversion and affect brain functions and mood. This study investigated the effects of chronic social equality and inequality (CSE and CSI, respectively) conditions on passive avoidance memory and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-like behaviors in rats under chronic empathic stress. METHODS Rats were divided into different groups, including control, sham-observer, sham-demonstrator, observer, demonstrator, and co-demonstrator groups. Chronic stress (2 h/day) was administered to all stressed groups for 21 days. Fear learning, fear memory, memory consolidation, locomotor activity, and PTSD-like behaviors were evaluated using the passive avoidance test. Apart from the hippocampal weight, the correlations of memory and right hippocampal weight with serum corticosterone (CORT) levels were separately assessed for all experimental groups. RESULTS Latency was significantly higher in the demonstrator and sham-demonstrator groups compared to the control group. It was decreased significantly in other groups compared to the control group. Latency was also decreased in the observer and co-demonstrator groups compared to the demonstrator group. Moreover, the right hippocampal weight was significantly decreased in the demonstrator and sham-demonstrator groups compared to the control group. Pearson's correlation of memory and hippocampal weight with serum CORT levels supported the present findings. CONCLUSION Maladaptive fear responses occurred in demonstrators and sham-demonstrators. Also, extremely high levels of psychological stress, especially under CSI conditions (causing abnormal fear learning) led to heightened fear memory and PTSD-like behaviors. Right hippocampal atrophy confirmed the potential role of CSI conditions in promoting PTSD-like behaviors. Compared to inequality conditions, the abnormal fear memory was reduced under equality conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mazaheri
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryam Radahmadi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Sharifi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Park SM, Lee JY, Choi JS, Jung HY. A prospective study on EEG default mode network associated with subsequent posttraumatic stress disorder following sexual assault. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 174:181-191. [PMID: 38642455 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in women who have recently experienced sexual assault, by examining psychological and neurophysiological factors using a prospective design with resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) functional connectivity. The study enrolled 33 women who had been recently traumatized by sexual assault and conducted assessments within a month of the trauma. These survivors were evaluated for PTSD three months later and were classified into two groups: PTSD positive (n = 12) and PTSD negative (n = 21). They were compared to two control groups comprising women who had not experienced any extremely traumatic events: 25 with depression and 25 healthy controls. The evaluation focused on resting-state EEG functional connectivity within default mode network (DMN) using small-worldness (SW), based on graph theory. We also assessed self-reported levels of depression, anxiety, anger, and executive functions. The findings indicated that survivors who developed PTSD three months post-trauma exhibited higher anxiety levels and reduced DMN SW in the beta 3 frequency, compared to those who did not develop PTSD. Contrary to expectations, survivors without PTSD showed decreased executive functioning and lower prefrontal centrality compared to those with PTSD. This study underscores the importance of early assessment and intervention for sexual assault survivors at risk of developing PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Mi Park
- Department of Counseling Psychology, Hannam University, Daejoen, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jun-Young Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jung-Seok Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hee Yeon Jung
- Department of Psychiatry, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Institute of Human Behavioral Medicine, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Dokkedahl SB, Lahav Y. Peritraumatic dissociation and posttraumatic stress symptoms: the moderating role of perceived threat. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2338670. [PMID: 38618677 PMCID: PMC11020594 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2024.2338670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Although peritraumatic dissociation (PD) is viewed as a risk factor for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), prospective studies taking into account other well-known risk factors for PTSD have been scarce, and the exploration of potential moderators within the relations between PD and PTSD has been lacking.Objective: Filling this gap, this prospective study explored the moderating role of perceived threat within the relations between PD and PTSD, above and beyond age, gender, education, and early trauma-related symptoms.Method: A convenience sample of 200 Israeli civilians filled out self-report questionnaires during the peritraumatic phase (T1) and one to two months after the posttraumatic phase (T2) of being exposed to rocket attacks.Results: The results showed that perceived threat and PD were associated with early trauma-related symptoms and PTSD symptoms. Moreover, perceived threat moderated the relationship between PD and all PTSD symptom clusters apart from avoidance.Conclusions: The present results suggest that the implications of PD are shaped by levels of perceived threat, so that detriments of PD are evident when the trauma is appraised as being highly threatening. Therefore, early interventions that aim to decrease PD may be beneficial in preventing PTSD symptoms of intrusion, hyper arousal, and negative alterations in mood and cognition, for individuals who perceive traumatic events as highly threatening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bøgelund Dokkedahl
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- National Center of Psychotraumatology, Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Yael Lahav
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Biscoe N, New E, Murphy D. Complex PTSD symptom clusters and executive function in UK Armed Forces veterans: a cross-sectional study. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:209. [PMID: 38622745 PMCID: PMC11020799 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01713-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Less is known about complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) than postrraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in military veterans, yet this population may be at greater risk of the former diagnosis. Executive function impairment has been linked to PTSD treatment outcomes. The current study therefore aimed to explore possible associations between each CPTSD symptom cluster and executive function to understand if similar treatment trajectories might be observed with the disorder. METHODS A total of 428 veterans from a national charity responded to a self-report questionnaire which measured CPTSD symptom clusters using the International Trauma Questionnaire, and executive function using the Adult Executive Function Inventory. Single and multiple linear regression models were used to analyse the relationship between CPTSD symptom clusters and executive function, including working memory and inhibition. RESULTS Each CPTSD symptom cluster was significantly associated with higher executive function impairment, even after controlling for possible mental health confounding variables. Emotion dysregulation was the CPTSD symptom cluster most strongly associated with executive function impairment. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to explore the relationship between executive function and CPTSD symptom clusters. The study builds on previous findings and suggests that executive function could be relevant to CPTSD treatment trajectories, as is the case with PTSD alone. Future research should further explore such clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emma New
- Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Dominic Murphy
- Combat Stress, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 0BX, UK
- King's Centre for Military Health Research, King's College London, London, SE5 9PR, UK
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Yavna K, Sinelnichenko Y, Zhuravel T, Yule W, Rosenthal M. Teaching Recovery Techniques (TRT) to Ukrainian children and adolescents to self-manage post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD) symptoms following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 - The first 7 months. J Affect Disord 2024; 351:243-249. [PMID: 38272365 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 prompted many to provide mental health input, especially trauma management, to Ukrainian children and adolescents (C/A) exposed to it. METHODS Rapid cascade training of 200 Ukrainian psychologists during 2022 to provide, in pairs, free of charge and without selection, TRT courses of 4-6, 90 min sessions online or face to face to C/A 7 to 23 years in Ukraine and those migrating abroad. CRIES-8 PTSD questionnaires were administered at the beginning and end of the courses during May-December 2022. Age, gender, their geographical war risk, and whether C/A had stayed or migrated elsewhere were collected. A CRIES-8 score of ≥17/40 defined likely PTSD. RESULTS 3123 C/A completed an initial CRIES-8 questionnaire with matching demographics, 2737 a questionnaire at the end and 1798 both. At entry to TRT, likely PTSD was greater in females (65 %) than males (52 %, p < 0.001) declining with increasing age, particularly in males (p < 0.001). Migration had mixed effects and moving to lower war risk areas or abroad did not reduce PTSD risk. TRT benefited 68 % of C/A overall by reducing CRIES-8 from ≥17 to <17, the rate increasing the more experienced the TRT facilitators became (p < 0.0001). Online and face to face outcomes were the same. LIMITATIONS The chaos of war prevented capture of all potential C/A questionnaires and long-term repeat testing not yet undertaken. CONCLUSIONS Even in the chaos of war, effective mental health input can be rapidly and cheaply (c.50 USD/child) provided and should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - William Yule
- Department of Psychology, King's College London Institute of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Rosenthal
- Dept Paediatric Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton Hospital, Sydney St, London SW3 6NP, United Kingdom.
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Goldstein SC, Forkus SR, Fenn NQ, Thomas ED, Suazo NC, Weiss NH. Racial Microaggressions Mediate the Association Between Posttraumatic Stress and Alcohol Use Among Women of Color Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence. J Dual Diagn 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38615676 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2024.2336629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Objective: Women of Color (WoC) experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) have elevated rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use and related harm (e.g., increased alcohol use and negative consequences). This secondary data analysis assessed the role of racial microaggressions in the association between PTSD and alcohol use and related harm among WoC experiencing IPV. Methods: Participants were 103 WoC currently experiencing IPV and using substances (Mage=40.39, 51.5% Black) who were recruited from the community and completed assessments of PTSD, racial microaggressions, and alcohol use and related harm. Results: Assumptions of Inferiority (e.g., intelligence; B = 1.44, SE = 0.90, 95% CI [0.10, 3.54]) and Environmental Microaggressions (e.g., portrayal in media; B = 1.88, SE = 1.03, 95% CI [0.28, 4.30]) explained the association between PTSD and alcohol use and related harm. Conclusions: Findings underscore the influence of specific microaggressions in the relation between PTSD and alcohol use and related harm among WoC experiencing IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvi C Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Shannon R Forkus
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Natalie Q Fenn
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Emmanuel D Thomas
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Nazaret C Suazo
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Nicole H Weiss
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
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Ressler A, Hinchey LM, Mast J, Zucconi BE, Bratchuk A, Parfenukt N, Roth D, Javanbakht A. Alone on the frontline: The first report of PTSD prevalence and risk in de-occupied Ukrainian villages. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2024:207640241242030. [PMID: 38605592 DOI: 10.1177/00207640241242030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine marks a critical juncture in a series of events posing severe threat to the health of Ukrainian citizens. While recent reports reveal higher rates of PTSD in Ukrainian refugees following Russia's invasion - data for Ukrainians remaining at the warfront is inherently difficult to access. A primarily elderly demographic, Ukrainians in previously Russian-occupied areas near the front (UPROANF) are at particular risk. DESIGN Data was sourced from screening questionnaires administered between March 2022 and July 2023 by mobile health clinics providing services to UPROANF. SETTING Previously occupied villages in Eastern and Southern Ukraine. PARTICIPANTS UPROANF attending clinics completed voluntary self-report surveys reporting demographics, prior health diagnoses, and PTSD symptom severity (n = 450; Meanage = 53.66; 72.0% female). EXPOSURE Participants were exposed to Russian occupation of Ukrainian villages. MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURES The PTSD Checklist for the DSM-V (PCL-5) with recommended diagnostic threshold (i.e. 31) was utilized to assess PTSD prevalence and symptom severity. ANCOVA was used to examine hypothesized positive associations between (1) HTN and (2) loneliness and PTSD symptoms (cumulative and by symptom cluster). RESULTS Between 47.8% and 51.33% screened positive for PTSD. Though cumulative PTSD symptoms did not differ based on HTN diagnostic status, those with HTN reported significantly higher PTSD re-experiencing symptoms (b = 1.25, SE = 0.60, p = .046). Loneliness was significantly associated with more severe cumulative PTSD symptoms (b = 1.29, SE = 0.31, p < .001), re-experiencing (b = 0.47, SE = 0.12, p < .001), avoidance (b = .18, SE = 0.08, p = .038), and hypervigilance (b = 0.29, SE = 0.13, p = .036). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE PTSD prevalence was higher than other war-exposed populations. Findings highlight the urgent mental health burden among UPROANF, emphasizing the need for integrated care models addressing both trauma and physical health. Given the significance of loneliness as a risk factor, findings suggest the potential for group-based, mind-body interventions to holistically address the physical, mental, and social needs of this highly traumatized, underserved population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Ressler
- Department of Human Biology, Sattler College, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Liza M Hinchey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jonathan Mast
- Department of Human Biology, Sattler College, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Beth E Zucconi
- Department of Human Biology, Sattler College, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anatoliy Bratchuk
- Department of General Medicine, National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, Vinnytsia, Vinnytsia Oblast, Ukraine
| | - Nadia Parfenukt
- Department of Nursing, The First Kyiv Medical College, Ukraine
| | - Dianne Roth
- College Of Nurses of Ontario, Toronto, Canada
| | - Arash Javanbakht
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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Carpenter JK, Pineles SL, Griffin MG, Werner K, Resick PA, Galovski TE. Effect of PTSD treatment on cardiovascular reactivity during trauma memory recall and correspondence with symptom improvement. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2335865. [PMID: 38597201 PMCID: PMC11008309 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2024.2335865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACTBackground: Prior research has shown PTSD treatment leads to reductions in cardiovascular reactivity during trauma recall, but the extent to which such reductions are associated with changes in PTSD symptoms is less clear. Moreover, such relationships have not been investigated in a cognitively focused PTSD treatment.Objective: To examine changes in cardiovascular reactivity to the trauma memory in patients receiving cognitive processing therapy (CPT), CPT with a written trauma account, and a written account only condition. We also examined the association of such changes with symptom improvement.Method: 118 women with PTSD secondary to interpersonal violence completed pre- and post-treatment assessments of PTSD symptoms and cardiovascular reactivity during a script-driven imagery task.Results: Results indicated a significant but modest reduction in cardiovascular reactivity in CPT conditions. Changes in cardiovascular reactivity and reexperiencing symptoms were significantly associated among the whole sample. Among individuals with the greatest reactivity to the trauma memory at pretreatment, associations were also seen with changes in total PTSD, numbing, and trauma-related guilt.Conclusions: Results indicate that previous findings on the effect of PTSD treatment on cardiovascular reactivity during trauma recall extend to cognitively oriented treatment. Baseline cardiovascular reactivity may influence the extent to which reductions in PTSD symptoms and reactivity during trauma recall are related.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph K. Carpenter
- National Center for PTSD, Women’s Health Sciences Division, Boston, MA, USA
- Veterans Affairs (VA) Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Suzanne L. Pineles
- National Center for PTSD, Women’s Health Sciences Division, Boston, MA, USA
- Veterans Affairs (VA) Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael G. Griffin
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kimberly Werner
- College of Nursing, University of Missouri St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Patricia A. Resick
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical School, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Tara E. Galovski
- National Center for PTSD, Women’s Health Sciences Division, Boston, MA, USA
- Veterans Affairs (VA) Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Ho GWK, Chan KL, Karatzias T, Hyland P, Fung HW, Shevlin M. Prevalence and validity of ICD-11 posttraumatic stress disorder ( PTSD) and complex PTSD: A population-based survey of Hong Kong adults. Asian J Psychiatr 2024; 96:104045. [PMID: 38643682 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2024.104045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
The present study aimed to report the prevalence of ICD-11 posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD (CPTSD) in the general adult Hong Kong population, and examine the validity of the Chinese International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ). This descriptive cross-sectional population-based telephone survey included a representative sample of 1070 non-institutionalized permanent Hong Kong residents ages 18-64 years. Participants provided responses to the Chinese version of the ITQ, and measures of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), depression, anxiety, and stress. Based on the diagnostic algorithm of the ITQ, 5.9% of the sample screened positive for either CPTSD or PTSD, with CPTSD (4.2%) being more common that PTSD (1.7%). Results of the confirmatory factor analysis indicated the first-order correlated 6-factor model to be the best fitting solution. Symptom cluster summed scores were all positively and significantly correlated with all criterion variables. This investigation established the prevalence rates of ICD-11 PTSD and CPTSD using a general adult population sample in Hong Kong. The Chinese ITQ demonstrated sound factorial validity and concurrent validity. Future research can further characterize ICD-11 PTSD and CPTSD in subgroups using the Chinese ITQ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace W K Ho
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, SAR China.
| | - Ko Ling Chan
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Thanos Karatzias
- School of Health & Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University, United Kingdom
| | - Philip Hyland
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Ireland
| | - Hong Wang Fung
- Department of Social Work, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Mark Shevlin
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, United Kingdom
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Monson CM, Pukay-Martin ND, Wagner AC, Crenshaw AO, Blount TH, Schobitz RP, Dondanville KA, Young-McCaughan S, Mintz J, Riggs DS, Brundige A, Hembree EA, Litz BT, Roache JD, Yarvis JS, Peterson AL. Cognitive-behavioural conjoint therapy versus prolonged exposure for PTSD in military service members and veterans: results and lessons from a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2330305. [PMID: 38590124 PMCID: PMC11005874 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2024.2330305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Military personnel and veterans are at heightened risk for exposure to traumatic events and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as intimate relationship problems associated with PTSD. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relative efficacy of CBCT and PE in improving intimate relationship functioning in active duty military personnel or veterans and their intimate partners; both conditions were hypothesized to significantly improve PTSD. Method: In this study, 32 military service members or veterans with PTSD and their intimate partners were randomized to receive either Cognitive-Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD (n = 15; CBCT; [Monson, C. M., & Fredman, S. J. (2012). Cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder: Harnessing the healing power of relationships. Guilford]), a trauma-focused couple therapy, or Prolonged Exposure (n = 17; PE; [Foa, E. B., Hembree, E. A., Dancu, C. V., Peterson, A. L., Cigrang, J. A., & Riggs, D. S. (2008). Prolonged exposure treatment for combat-related stress disorders - provider's treatment manual [unpublished]. Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania]), a front-line evidence-based individual treatment for PTSD. There were significant challenges with recruitment and a significant difference in dropout from treatment for the two therapies (65% for PE; 27% for CBCT). Treatment dropout was differentially related to pre-treatment relationship functioning; those with below average relationship functioning had higher dropout in PE compared with CBCT, whereas those with above average relationship functioning did not show differential dropout. In general, CBCT led to relational improvements, but this was not consistently found in PE. Clinician- and self-reported PTSD symptoms improved with both treatments. This study is the first to test a couple or family therapy against a well-established, front-line recommended treatment for PTSD, with expected superiority of CBCT over PE on relationship outcomes. Lessons learned in trial design, including considerations of equipoise, and the effects of differential dropout on trial analyses are discussed. This trial provides further support for the efficacy of CBCT in the treatment of PTSD and enhancement of intimate relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candice M. Monson
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Anne C. Wagner
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
- Remedy, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Tabatha H. Blount
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Richard P. Schobitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Katherine A. Dondanville
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Stacey Young-McCaughan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Research and Development Service, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jim Mintz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Research and Development Service, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - David S. Riggs
- Hérbert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and Center for Deployment Psychology, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Antoinette Brundige
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | - Brett T. Litz
- Massachusetts Veterans Epidemiological Research and Information Center, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John D. Roache
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Research and Development Service, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey S. Yarvis
- Department of Behavioral Health, Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, Fort Hood, TX, USA
| | - Alan L. Peterson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Research and Development Service, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - for the STRONG STAR Consortium
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
- Cincinnati VA Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Remedy, Toronto, Canada
- Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Hérbert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and Center for Deployment Psychology, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Massachusetts Veterans Epidemiological Research and Information Center, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Research and Development Service, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Department of Behavioral Health, Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, Fort Hood, TX, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Wang J, Zhao P, Cheng P, Zhang Z, Yang S, Wang J, Wang X, Zhu G. Exploring the effect of Anshen Dingzhi prescription on hippocampal mitochondrial signals in single prolonged stress mouse model. J Ethnopharmacol 2024; 323:117713. [PMID: 38181935 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
HEADINGS ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Anshen Dingzhi prescription (ADP), which was first published in the masterpiece of traditional Chinese Medicine in the Qing Dynasty, "Yi Xue Xin Wu" (1732 CE), is documented to interrupt panic-related disorders. However, the mechanism of its action is still not clear. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aims to investigate the effects of ADP on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-like behaviors and explore the mechanism from perspective of sirtuin1 (SIRT1)-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma co-activator 1 alpha (PGC-1α)-dependent mitochondrial function. MATERIALS AND METHODS The changes of SIRT1-PGC-1α signal and mitochondrial function were evaluated in the hippocampus of mice receiving single prolonged stress (SPS). Later, the roles of this signaling pathway played in fear memory generalization and anxiety-like behavior in SPS mice was investigated using two agonists of this signaling pathway. On this basis, the effects of ADP (36.8 mg/kg) with definite therapeutic effects, on mitochondrial function were investigated and further confirmed by a SIRT1 inhibitor. Finally, the possible components of ADP targeting PGC-1α were monitored through bioinformatics. RESULTS Compared with control mice, SIRT1-PGC-1α signal in the hippocampus was impaired in SPS mice, accompanied with dysfunction of mitochondria and abnormal expression of synaptic proteins. The agonists of SIRT1-PGC-1α signal, ZLN005, as well as resveratrol improved the behavioral changes of mice caused by SPS, reversed the decline of proteins in SIRT1-PGC-1α signal, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the abnormal expression of synaptic proteins. The fingerprint was established for the quality control of ADP. At a dose of 36.8 mg/kg, ADP could prevent fear memory generalization and anxiety-like behavior in SPS mice. Mechanically, ADP promoted SIRT1-PGC-1α signal and repaired mitochondrial function. Importantly, SIRT1 inhibitor, selisistat eliminated the ameliorative effects of ADP on behavioral and mitochondrial function. Through molecular docking simulation, the brain-entering components of ADP, including malkangunin, Rg5, fumarine, frutinone A, celabenzine, and inermin had high binding energy with PGC-1α. CONCLUSION Dysfunction of SIRT1-PGC-1α-dependent mitochondrial function is attributed to SPS-triggered fear generalization and anxiety-like behavior, and ADP could improve PTSD-like behaviors likely through activating this signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Panpan Zhao
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Ping Cheng
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Zhengrong Zhang
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Shaojie Yang
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Acupuncture and Moxibustion Clinical Medical Research Center of Anhui Province, The Second Affiliation Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230061, China
| | - Jingji Wang
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Acupuncture and Moxibustion Clinical Medical Research Center of Anhui Province, The Second Affiliation Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230061, China
| | - Xuncui Wang
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Guoqi Zhu
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
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Puhalla A, Sullivan C, Chard K, Dickstein B, Hoge CW. An examination of the potential core symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder: What is integral after removing general psychopathology & distress? J Psychiatr Res 2024; 174:46-53. [PMID: 38613942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Many confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) have examined the structure of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with some suggesting increased complexity (i.e., 6+ factors), while others suggesting a more refined structure (i.e., 2-factors). These competing PTSD structures may be due to conflation of non-trauma specific symptoms that have been added overtime. However, none of these studies examined if all symptoms being examined are specific to PTSD or potentially more related to general distress and psychopathology. The current study re-evaluated the structure of PTSD using bifactor exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to identify the construct's core symptoms. Data for EFA models were taken from a sample of Veterans (N = 694) attending outpatient therapy for PTSD and were cross-validated using CFA in a sample of 297 Veterans attending residential treatment. Clinician Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) at pre-treatment was used across sample. Factor analyses resulted in a 2-factor, bifactor model comprised of eight total items. Model fit was robust, RMSEA = 0 [0.000, 0.036]; robust CFI = 1; robust TLI = 1.017. The bifactor analytic approach captured what might be the core structure of PTSD, which were pathognomonic symptoms of PTSD (Factor one). A distinct second factor related to depression was also found. In identifying this structure, the model eliminates redundancies and lesser performing items and differentiates depressive reactions as potentially distinct and separate. Overall, these findings may assist in future research of PTSD by determining the unique elements of the construct within a veteran sample versus associated features, general psychological distress, and comorbid psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Puhalla
- Department of Education & Research, Coatesville VA Medical Center, Coatesville, PA, USA.
| | - Connor Sullivan
- Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kathleen Chard
- Trauma Recovery Center Cincinnati VA Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Benjamin Dickstein
- Trauma Recovery Center Cincinnati VA Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Charles W Hoge
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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Ten Brink M, Shechter A, Cornelius T, Rojas DA, Murdock ME, Schwartz JE, Lee SAJ, Birk JL. Cardiac-induced PTSD symptoms predict shorter sleep a month after acute coronary syndrome evaluation. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2024:S0163-8343(24)00069-0. [PMID: 38599946 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2024.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Maia Ten Brink
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America.
| | - Ari Shechter
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America; Center of Excellence for Sleep & Circadian Research, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Talea Cornelius
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Danielle A Rojas
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Margaret E Murdock
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Joseph E Schwartz
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, United States of America
| | - Sung A J Lee
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey L Birk
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
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Cusack SE, Maihofer AX, Bustamante D, Amstadter AB, Duncan LE. Genetic influences on testosterone and PTSD. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 174:8-11. [PMID: 38598976 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Females are twice as likely to experience PTSD as compared to males. Although sex differences in prevalence are well-established, little is known about why such sex differences occur. Biological factors that vary with sex, including sex hormone production, may contribute to these differences. Considerable evidence links sex hormones, such as testosterone, to PTSD risk though less is known about the shared genetic underpinnings. The objective of the present study was to test for genetic relationships between testosterone and PTSD. To do so, we used summary statistics from large, publicly available genetic consortia to conduct linkage disequilibrium score regression to estimate the genetic correlations between PTSD and testosterone in males and females, and two-sample, bi-directional Mendelian randomization to examine potential causal relationships of testosterone on PTSD and the reverse. Heritability estimates of testosterone were significantly higher in males (0.17, SE = 0.02) than females (0.11, SE = 0.01; z = 2.46, p = 00.01). The correlation between testosterone and PTSD was negative in males (rg = -0.11, SE = 0.02, p = 6.7 x 10-6), but not significant in females (rg = 0.002, SE = 0.03, p = 0.95). MR analyses found no evidence of a causal effect of testosterone on PTSD or the reverse. Findings are consistent with phenotypic literature suggesting a relationship between testosterone and PTSD that may be sex-specific. This work provides early evidence of a relationship between testosterone and PTSD genotypically and suggests an avenue for future research that will enable a better understanding of disparities in PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon E Cusack
- Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA.
| | - Adam X Maihofer
- University of California San Diego, Department of Psychiatry, La Jolla, CA, USA; Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, Research Service, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Bustamante
- Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA
| | - Ananda B Amstadter
- Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA
| | - Laramie E Duncan
- Stanford University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
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Martinez-Torteya C, Ramírez Hernández LI, la Garza BTD, Pérez Tello KP, Díaz Delgado BA. Longitudinal change in symptoms of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic among Mexican college students. Int J Psychol 2024. [PMID: 38576093 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.13126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Longitudinal studies suggest the psychological difficulties precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic have gradually declined, but our understanding of the factors that predict change in mental health is limited. We evaluated the mental health of Mexican college students during the early stage of the pandemic and 4 months later, as well as predictors of change in students' mental health. Participants were 648 students (71% women, Mage = 21.46) from a private University in Northern Mexico who completed online surveys from May 2020 to September 2020. Students' self-reported levels of mental health symptoms (depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder) significantly decreased from May to September. Poor physical health, more COVID-related worry and higher initial levels of peer social support predicted less change in psychological symptoms. On the other hand, more hours of sleep per night and a pre-existing mental health diagnosis predicted steeper decreases in symptoms. Findings suggest reductions in mental health difficulties that are consistent with theoretical frameworks of resilience among Mexican college students. In addition, results underscore the interplay between physical, psychological and social functioning, and the need for continued monitoring of mental health and intervention efforts that address physical health, sleep and pandemic-related worry in University settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Karla P Pérez Tello
- Department of Education, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolas de los Garza, Mexico
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Ross DC, McCallum N, Truuvert AK, Butt A, Behdinan T, Rojas D, Soklaridis S, Vigod S. The development and evaluation of a virtual, asynchronous, trauma-focused treatment program for adult survivors of childhood interpersonal trauma. J Ment Health 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38572918 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2024.2332797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The long-term mental and physical health implications of childhood interpersonal trauma on adult survivors is immense, however, there is a lack of available trauma-focused treatment services that are widely accessible. This study, utilizing a user-centered design process, sought feedback on the initial design and development of a novel, self-paced psychoeducation and skills-based treatment intervention for this population. AIMS To explore the views and perspectives of adult survivors of childhood interpersonal trauma on the first two modules of an asynchronous trauma-focused treatment program. METHODS Fourteen participants from our outpatient hospital service who completed the modules consented to provide feedback on their user experience. A thematic analysis of the three focus groups was conducted. RESULTS Four major themes emerged from the focus groups: (1) technology utilization, (2) module content, (3) asynchronous delivery, and (4) opportunity for interactivity. Participants noted the convenience of the platform and the use of multimedia content to increase engagement and did not find the modules to be emotionally overwhelming. CONCLUSIONS Our research findings suggest that an asynchronous virtual intervention for childhood interpersonal trauma survivors may be a safe and acceptable way to provide a stabilization-focused intervention on a wider scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana C Ross
- Women's College Hospital and Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nancy McCallum
- Women's College Hospital and Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Annie K Truuvert
- Women's College Hospital and Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Aysha Butt
- Women's College Hospital and Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tina Behdinan
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David Rojas
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- The Wilson Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sophie Soklaridis
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- The Wilson Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Simone Vigod
- Women's College Hospital and Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Lebeaut A, Zegel M, Healy NA, McGrew SJ, Viana AG, Vujanovic AA. Posttraumatic Stress and Alcohol Use Among Hispanic/Latinx University Students: A Moderated Indirect Effect Model of Coping-Related Drinking and Anxiety Sensitivity. J Dual Diagn 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38569201 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2024.2335177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Objective: Posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and anxiety sensitivity (AS) are associated with increased alcohol use and coping-motivated drinking among university students. This study among trauma-exposed Hispanic/Latinx university students sought to examine the indirect effect of PTSS on alcohol use severity through coping-motivated drinking and test the moderating role of AS and AS subfacets. Methods: University students who identified as Hispanic/Latinx (N = 830) were recruited from a large, urban, southern university and completed online, self-report questionnaires. Results: A significant interactive effect of PTSS and AS on coping-motivated drinking emerged. PTSS exerted a significant indirect effect on alcohol use severity, through coping-motivated drinking. Simple slope analyses revealed that PTSS was associated with coping-motivated drinking across all levels of AS. Post hoc results revealed unique biological sex differences in probable diagnosis odds ratios. Conclusions: These findings indicate that PTSS and AS are associated with coping-motivated drinking and alcohol use severity in trauma-exposed, Hispanic/Latinx university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Lebeaut
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Maya Zegel
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nathaniel A Healy
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shelby J McGrew
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Andres G Viana
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Anka A Vujanovic
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, Texas, USA
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Sumner JA, Kim ESH, Wood MJ, Chi G, Nolen J, Grodzinsky A, Gornik HL, Kadian-Dodov D, Wells BJ, Hess CN, Lewey J, Tam L, Henkin S, Orford J, Wells G, Kumbhani DJ, Lindley KJ, Gibson CM, Leon KK, Naderi S. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder After Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: A Report of the International Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection Registry. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e032819. [PMID: 38533943 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.032819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocardial infarction secondary to spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) can be traumatic and potentially trigger posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In a large, multicenter, registry-based cohort, we documented prevalence of lifetime and past-month SCAD-induced PTSD, as well as related treatment seeking, and examined a range of health-relevant correlates of SCAD-induced PTSD. METHODS AND RESULTS Patients with SCAD were enrolled in the iSCAD (International SCAD) Registry. At baseline, site investigators completed medical report forms, and patients reported demographics, medical/SCAD history, psychosocial factors (including SCAD-induced PTSD symptoms), health behaviors, and health status via online questionnaires. Of 1156 registry patients, 859 patients (93.9% women; mean age, 52.3 years) completed questionnaires querying SCAD-induced PTSD. Nearly 35% (n=298) of patients met diagnostic criteria for probable SCAD-induced PTSD in their lifetime, and 6.4% (n=55) met criteria for probable past-month PTSD. Of 811 patients ever reporting any SCAD-induced PTSD symptoms, 34.8% indicated seeking treatment for this distress. However, 46.0% of the 298 patients with lifetime probable SCAD-induced PTSD diagnoses reported never receiving trauma-related treatment. Younger age at first SCAD, fewer years since SCAD, being single, unemployed status, more lifetime trauma, and history of anxiety were associated with greater past-month PTSD symptom severity in multivariable regression models. Greater past-month SCAD-induced PTSD symptoms were associated with greater past-week sleep disturbance and worse past-month disease-specific health status when adjusting for various risk factors. CONCLUSIONS Given the high prevalence of SCAD-induced PTSD symptoms, efforts to support screening for these symptoms and connecting patients experiencing distress with empirically supported treatments are critical next steps. REGISTRATION URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT04496687.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Sumner
- Department of Psychology University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles CA USA
| | - Esther S H Kim
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine Vanderbilt University Medical Center Nashville TN USA
| | - Malissa J Wood
- Division of Cardiology Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School Boston MA USA
| | - Gerald Chi
- PERFUSE Study Group, Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School Boston MA USA
| | | | - Anna Grodzinsky
- Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Muriel I. Kauffman Women's Heart Center University of Missouri-Kansas City Kansas City MO USA
| | - Heather L Gornik
- Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute, University Hospitals, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine Case Western Reserve University Cleveland OH USA
| | - Daniella Kadian-Dodov
- Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute and Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Cardiovascular Health Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai New York NY USA
| | - Bryan J Wells
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta GA USA
| | - Connie N Hess
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora CO USA
| | - Jennifer Lewey
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine Philadelphia PA USA
| | - Lori Tam
- Providence Heart Institute Portland OR USA
| | - Stanislav Henkin
- Heart and Vascular Center Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Lebanon NH USA
| | - James Orford
- Intermountain Heart Institute, Intermountain Medical Center Murray UT USA
| | - Gretchen Wells
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine University of Kentucky Lexington KY USA
| | - Dharam J Kumbhani
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine UT Southwestern Medical Center Dallas TX USA
| | - Kathryn J Lindley
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine Vanderbilt University Medical Center Nashville TN USA
| | - C Michael Gibson
- PERFUSE Study Group, Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School Boston MA USA
| | | | - Sahar Naderi
- Division of Cardiology Kaiser Permanente San Francisco CA USA
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Kaufman CC, McHugh RK, Drury M, Merrill JG, Rosmarin DH. Spirituality/Religion Among First Responders With and Without Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Alcohol Misuse. J Dual Diagn 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38560884 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2024.2330619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Objective: To examine the co-occurrence of alcohol misuse and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and potential sources of coping (e.g., spirituality/religion) and clinically relevant variables among first responders (e.g., firefighters, law enforcement corrections officers, paramedics). Method: We assessed rates of independent and co-occurring alcohol misuse and PTSD among a national online sample of 320 first responders as well as the prevalence and salience of S/R, guilt, shame, moral injury, aspects of S/R, and treatment interest. Results: In our sample, 46.88% (n = 150) met criteria for comorbid alcohol misuse and probable PTSD and individuals with these comorbid conditions reported significantly greater negative religious coping, moral injury, and shame than all other diagnostic groups (i.e., independent alcohol misuse, independent PTSD, and neither). Correlations also revealed significant relationships between alcohol misuse and PTSD symptomatology with positive and negative religious coping, moral injury, shame, guilt, interest in treatment, and interest in spiritually integrated treatment. Conclusions: Findings highlight the high rates of independent and co-occurring alcohol misuse and PTSD among first responders as well as the salience of S/R in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline C Kaufman
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
- Spirituality and Mental Health Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
| | - R Kathryn McHugh
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
- McLean Hospital Stress, Anxiety, and Substance Use Laboratory, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mia Drury
- Spirituality and Mental Health Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julia G Merrill
- Department of Geriatrics, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David H Rosmarin
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
- Spirituality and Mental Health Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
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