In the first couple weeks after a mass trauma, brief versions of CBT may be helpful to some people who are having severe distress. Sometimes other treatments are used, but their effectiveness is not known. For example, there is growing interest in an approach called psychological first aid. The goal of this approach is to make people feel safe and secure, connect people to health care and other resources, and reduce stress reactions. There are guides for carrying out the treatment, but experts do not know yet if it helps prevent or treat PTSD.

In single-session psychological debriefing, another type of mass trauma treatment, survivors talk about the event and express their feelings one-on-one or in a group. Studies show that it is not likely to reduce distress or the risk for PTSD, and may actually increase distress and risk.

Summary:

Psychotherapy and medications are the main treatments for PTSD. Psychotherapy can take several forms, depending on the needs of the patient. Other types of treatment can also help people with PTSD, and people with PTSD should discuss all treatment options with their therapist.

Most importantly, treatments for PTSD do exist now, and research for better treatments is ongoing. If you or someone you know may be suffering from PTSD, don't hesitate to seek treatment. Untreated, PTSD can become more severe and debilitating.

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Resources:

Fact Sheet. "Treatment of PTSD." National Center for PTSD.

Health & Outreach Publications. "How is PTSD treated?" National Institute of Mental Health. January 21, 2009.

© Teri Robert, 2009.
Last updated April 8, 2009.