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Post-traumatic stress disorder in disaster survivors
1Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO.
Comprehensive Therapy
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Understanding traumatic stress in disaster survivors is crucial, as millions are affected annually. Research aids in understanding post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and coping mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Disaster mental health
- Traumatic stress studies
- Psychology of coping
Background:
- Millions of households worldwide are affected by natural disasters annually.
- The at-risk population is growing due to technological advancements.
- Disaster research enhances understanding of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and coping.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of studying traumatic stress in disaster victims.
- To underscore the need for knowledge to aid future disaster survivors.
- To explore the generalizability of disaster coping processes to everyday stress.
Main Methods:
- Observational studies of disaster survivors.
- Analysis of acute post-disaster symptoms.
- Consideration of premorbid psychopathology in symptom resolution.
Main Results:
- Acute PTSD symptoms like insomnia and nightmares are common post-disaster.
- Nonresolution of symptoms warrants observation, especially with prior psychopathology.
- Most PTSD symptoms are expected to resolve over time.
Conclusions:
- Continued research into traumatic stress is vital due to increasing risks.
- Survivors benefit from reassurance regarding the transient nature of acute PTSD symptoms.
- Understanding coping processes in disasters can inform general stress management.