Trauma Response Flashcards
List some risk factors for heightened responses to trauma
Sudden, unexpected event Man-made rather than natural Prolonged exposure Threat to life, death Personal factors (family)
What is associated with the highest incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder?
Rape
What is the freeze response?
Body goes into shutdown with immobility in the presence of “inevitable” danger (think of a deer on the road)
List some clinical features of complex PTSD
Low self-esteem, self-blame Hopelessness Somatisation Mood disturbance Self-harm
What is the most emotionally charged part of the brain?
Amygdala
List the main features of PTSD (FAANDER)
Flashbacks Nightmares Avoidance Arousal (increased) Emotional numbness Dissociation Re-enactment
How long after a traumatic event can PTSD be diagnosed?
3 months after
If trauma symptoms are mild and present for less than 4 weeks, what is the treatment?
Watchful waiting with support
List some psychotherapy that may be used for PTSD
CBT
EMDR
Media therapy
Mindfulness
Which antidepressant is licensed for use in PTSD?
Paroxetine (SSRI)