PTSD And Adjustment Disorders

Question 1

PTSD is characterized by….

Answer 1

Development of multiple symptoms after exposure to one or more traumatic events

Must include intrusive symptoms , avoidance of the stimuli, negative alterations, and thoughts and mood, as well as increased arousal

Symptoms must last for at least one month, and may be immediately after trauma or delayed expression

Question 2

Acute stress disorder

Answer 2

PTSD but for a shorter duration

Onset of symptoms must occur within one month of the trauma last for less than one month

Question 3

DSM requires what 7 symptoms for PTSD?

Answer 3

Exposure to actual, or threaten death, serious injury, or sexual violence
Intrusions are recurrent & involve re-experiencing the trauma
Active avoidance of triggering stimuli
Two negative conditions or moods must be present
Two symptoms of increased arousal or reactivity must be present

Symptoms cannot be caused by direct effects of substance or other medication
Must result in significant impairment

Question 4

The DSMV requires at least two of the following negative conditions or moods be present in PTSD:

Answer 4

Dissociative amnesia
Negative feelings of self or others
Self blame
negative emotions
Anhedonia
Feelings of detachment
Inability to experience, positive emotions

Question 5

The DSMV requires at least two of the following symptoms of increased arousal to be present for diagnosis of PTSD:

Answer 5

Hypervigilance
Exaggerated startle response
Irritability or angry outbursts
Impaired concentration

Question 6

When does PTSD typically begin?

Answer 6

Within three months of the trauma, but delayed response can occur

Question 7

80% of patients with PTSD also have…

Answer 7

Another comorbid medical disorder

Question 8

Treatment of PTSD

Answer 8

SSRIs or SNRIs
Prazosin- alpha receptor antagonist that targets, nightmares and hypervigilance

Question 9

Why do we avoid giving benzodiazepines to PTSD patients?

Answer 9

High rate of comorbid substance abuse

Question 10

T/F: psychotherapy is never indicated in PTSD

Answer 10

False

Psychotherapy is always indicated

Question 11

Adjustment disorder

Answer 11

Occur when behavioral or emotional symptoms develop after stressful life event
Develop within 3 months of the event
Resolved within 6 months