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Delayed emergence of post-traumatic stress disorder
1Department of Psychological Medicine, National University of Singapore.
Singapore Medical Journal
|February 1, 1991
Summary
This case study details a Chinese male experiencing delayed Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) four years after a severe accident. Treatment with antidepressants and psychotherapy proved effective, with sustained recovery.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is characterized by symptoms following exposure to a psychologically distressing event.
- Delayed onset PTSD, particularly in non-combat settings, presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Observation:
- A Chinese male presented with PTSD symptoms four years after a life-threatening vehicular accident.
- The delayed manifestation of symptoms, four years post-trauma, is an unusual clinical presentation.
Findings:
- The patient's delayed onset PTSD responded successfully to a combined treatment approach.
- A combination of antidepressant medication and individual psychotherapy was utilized for treatment.
Implications:
- This case highlights the possibility of late-onset PTSD following severe trauma, even without combat exposure.
- Effective management of delayed PTSD can be achieved through integrated pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions.
- Further research into the long-term psychological impact of severe accidents and delayed PTSD is warranted.