Background: The United Nations defines Human Trafficking as “the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring, or receipt of people through force, fraud or deception, with the aim of exploiting them for profit,” and says it is practiced everywhere in the world. Studies show that women who have been trafficked for sex have higher levels of fear, are more isolated, greater trauma and mental health needs than other victims of crime, high rates of physical and sexual violence, memory loss, sexually transmitted diseases, and traumatic brain injuries. The present study attends to explore the mental health profile of a cohort of trafficked women from Egypt.

Studies show that women who have been trafficked for sex have higher levels of fear, are more isolated, greater trauma and mental health needs than other victims of crime, high rates of physical and sexual violence, memory loss, sexually transmitted diseases, and traumatic brain injuries.The present study attends to explore the mental health profile of a cohort of trafficked women from Egypt.

This study included detailed mental health assessments of 42 trafficked women in and around Cairo in Egypt. Data was collected by social workers. Assessments, Diagnosis and interventions were done by the author with the help of two clinical psychologists.

This snapshot study shows very convincingly that there’s a high burden of mental ill health among the trafficked women.Suitable therapeutic interventions may provide effective management and prevention of further deterioration of mental health issues of these vulnerable trafficked women.

This snapshot study shows very convincingly that there’s a high burden of mental ill health among the trafficked women.Suitable therapeutic interventions may provide effective management and prevention of further deterioration of mental health issues of these vulnerable trafficked women.

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South African adolescents are exposed to significant levels of trauma exposure, resulting in high levels post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Sleep disturbances are among the most frequently reported difficulties faced by those dealing with PTSD.

The current study aimed to determine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the SAASI on PTSD symptom severity and sleep disturbance when delivered in group format to South African adolescents with PTSD.

Sixty-one adolescents with PTSD diagnoses and sleep disturbance were randomly assigned to either one individual and four group sessions of the sleep intervention (SAASI) or a control group. At baseline, post- and 1-month follow-up participants completed the Child PTSD symptom scale for DSM5 (CPSS-5) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) among other sleep and psychiatric measures. The trial was registered on the Pan African Trial Registry (PACTR202208559723690).

There was a significant but similar decrease in PSQI scores in both groups over time indicating no overall intervention effect. Interaction between groups on the CPSS-5 was also not significant. Despite this overall finding, the mean difference in CPSS-SR-5 scores increased over time, with the difference between groups post-treatment and at the 1-month follow-up suggesting that PTSD symptom severity decreased more in the intervention group than the control group. The dropout rate was higher than expected for both the intervention and control groups. Reasons provided for dropout were mostly school commitments or travel related.

Conclusions: Early findings suggest a trend towards dual improvement in sleep quality and PTSD symptom severity in adolescents with a sleep disturbance and PTSD receiving a group sleep intervention (SAASI). Further investigation in a properly powered RCT with detailed retention planning is indicated.

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In addition to the typical risks associated with healthcare professions, being a midwife carries a significant psychological and emotional burden. This responsibility extends not only to the mother’s well-being but also to the newborn’s, making the role particularly vulnerable to psychosocial risks, often driven by high-stress situations.

To assess the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experienced by midwives.

We conducted a cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to midwives in the Sfax region. The questionnaire consisted of a first part relating to socio-demographic and professional data and a second part relating to the evaluation of the PTSD in midwives using the Impact of Event Scale (IES).

Our population comprised 74 midwives with an average age of 45.6 ± 10.3 years. Only 21.6% reported engaging in regular physical activity. The midwives worked in both public and private health facilities, with a mean of job tenure of 20.3 ± 10.6 years. A stressful event in their professional life was reported by 68.8% of midwives. The PTSD was detected in 30 midwives (40.5% of the midwifery population surveyed), 8 of whom had severe symptoms. The traumatic events reported by the midwives were related to injury to the newborn, injury to the parturient or working conditions.

We found that the factors related to the PTSD were the number of dependent parents, a history of anxiety, depression or hypothyroidism, and working fixed hours. Physical activity was a protective factor against post-traumatic stress. A statistically significant link was found between severe forms of PTSD and taking leave in the last three months. Binary logistic regression confirmed that while physical activity was protective, anxiety, depression, and hypothyroidism were independent risk factors for PTSD.

PTSD is a common issue among midwives. It should be studied and identified early in at-risk populations to prevent lasting consequences.

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Ongoing global conflicts have significant implications for the mental health of affected populations, with PTSD being one of the most prevalent disorders among those exposed to active violence.

To understand the importance of PTSD diagnosis and treatment in individuals exposed to active violence through the review of two clinical cases.

A clinical evaluation, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of two patients (A and B) during their admission to our hospital and a literature review of diagnosis and treatment of PTSD.

We studied two patients from Armenia, a country currently engaged in armed conflict, who sustained injuries from a bomb explosion. Patient A had burns covering 18% of Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) and three fingers amputated, while B had burns in 50% of TBSA. Both were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, where psychiatric evaluations were conducted, and then they were transferred to the plastic surgery unit for further care until discharge. During the first week of admission, symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, emotional numbness, feelings of fear, hopelessness, excessive guilt, insomnia, hypervigilance and episodes of depersonalization or derealization began to appear. Patient A exhibited an externalizing profile of symptoms (nocturnal agitation, crying and verbalization of guilt-related ruminations), while B presented an internalizing profile (affective numbness and dissociative episodes). Both cases were diagnosed with PTSD after more than a month of persistent symptoms. Psychopharmacological treatment was initiated after 20 days of hospitalization. Patient A was treated with quetiapine 200 mg/day for nocturnal agitation and sertraline 100 mg/day; while Patient B started sertraline 100mg/day and mirtazapine 15 mg/day. According to literature, first-line pharmacological treatment for PTSD includes SSRIs such as sertraline or fluoxetine. As a second-line we found mirtazapine, antipsychotics and prazosin. Benzodiazepines are not a choice and should be used cautiously (Schrader et al. MM 2021; 118 (6), 546-551). First-line treatment for PTSD is trauma-focused therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) (Mann et al. TI 2023). In our case, such therapy was not possible to start due to language barriers and the severity of patients’ physical conditions. Notably, current clinical trials are exploring the use of psychedelics in therapy to improve PTSD symptoms (Krediet et al. IJNP 2020; 23 (6), 385-400).

PTSD is a relatively common mental disorder, affecting up to 11% of war victims. Early detection of symptoms is crucial to start an appropiate psychotherapeutic treatment. Although psychopharmacological interventions are recommended as a second-line treatment, they may sometimes be the only feasible option, as demonstrated in these two clinical cases.

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Diagnosing psychiatric disorders in individuals raised in orphanages is challenging due to symptom overlap. Trauma from institutional life can mimic symptoms of both Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and paranoid schizophrenia (Hermenau et al. J Trauma Stress 2011; 24: 513-516). For example, PTSD symptoms like intrusive memories may resemble schizophrenia’s delusions when trauma affects threat perception. Additionally, PTSD-related attachment issues can exacerbate paranoia (Patel et al. J Trauma Dissociation 2016; 17: 123-136). Accurate diagnosis requires careful assessment of trauma history and symptom differentiation (Robinaugh et al. Depress Anxiety 2011; 28: 305-311).

Challenges of symptoms overlapping in schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, and PTSD.

Effects of orphanage background and early trauma on psychiatric symptoms.

Diagnostic methods and evolving treatment plans.

Patient ZN, a 37-year-old female with paranoid schizophrenia and borderline personality disorder (BPD), has had 11 admissions over six years at our clinic. Despite treatment with DSM-5 criteria, PANSS, and BEST scales, using antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and benzodiazepines, there was no significant improvement. This year, her hospitalizations increased, particularly after developing a strong attachment and maternal feelings toward a doctor who treated her three times consecutively. PTSD, relevant due to her orphanage background and initially unassessed, was later identified through screening. Data were recorded through clinical notes, informed consent was obtained, and the case study’s single-case design limits generalizability.

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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic condition resulting from exposure to traumatic events. The utilization of stellate ganglion block (SGB) as a potential treatment for PTSD has garnered increased interest in recent years. SGB acts by blocking sympathetic outflow, offering promise in alleviating autonomic dysfunction associated with PTSD symptoms. However, the evidence supporting SGB’s efficacy compared to established recommendations remains limited.

To bridge this knowledge gap, a systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to assess the clinical applications and implications of stellate ganglion block (SGB) in the management of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study aimed to identify pertinent literature, synthesize findings from diverse sources, evaluate outcomes of SGB therapy for PTSD, analyze factors such as anesthesia preferences and procedural methods, scrutinize symptom alleviation post-SGB sessions, explore reported side effects and symptom recurrence, and shed light on existing limitations within the current discourse on SGB’s utility in treating PTSD.

The systematic review involved the evaluation of 14 studies meeting predetermined inclusion criteria, incorporating a total of 550 participants. Notably, the majority of participants were military service members and veterans, with a median age of 36.9 years. The review focused on anesthetic practices, procedural techniques, timing of SGB administration, and symptom progression post-SGB therapy sessions.

Analysis of the selected studies highlighted the prevalent use of 0.5% ropivacaine as the preferred anesthetic for SGB, with the right-sided technique being the most commonly employed. Timing of the initial SGB session varied widely, with symptom improvement typically observed immediately or within the first week post-procedure. Positive outcomes often coincided with reductions in alcohol intake, medication use, and enhanced mood. Recurrence of symptoms was noted, necessitating additional SGB sessions, while reported side effects were predominantly mild and transient in nature.

While promising, caution is advised when interpreting the benefits of SGB due to challenges such as the absence of standardized clinical trial data, variabilities in reported outcomes, and potential reporting biases. Addressing these limitations through standardized assessment and reporting in future studies is crucial to enhance comprehension of SGB’s efficacy, safety, tolerability, and appropriate indications for treating PTSD. This endeavor is pivotal in advancing a more nuanced understanding of SGB’s role as a therapeutic modality in PTSD management.

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A human represents wholeness of biological, psychological and social nature and below impact of psychosocial stress preserves the homeostasis of the organism manifests a complete biopsychosocial response is therefore necessary in professional practice to be taken psychoneuroendocrine immunological approach in treating certain somatic and psychological.

Determining emotions, various types of aggression in people who have experienced a heart attack and is currently under the influence of chronic psychosocial stress of moderate intensity.

The examination was conducted on an outpatient basis on 14 subjects aged 51 to 72. age of male and female who experienced a heart attack. Applied: Azingerova aggression scale, PSQ stress test, Zung anxiety scale, Zung depression scale.

The respondents show a stress reaction at the level of moderate stress (30-60) with dominant feelings of: fatigue, tension, dissatisfaction, overload. Anxious symptoms are at the level of mild to moderate (45-59). Depressive symptoms are at the mild level (50-59). They have higher values on the aggression test. In both sexes (male and female) they have the highest values in self-aggression. Somewhat lower is verbal aggression while emotional aggression has average values. In the female gender, aggression is the lowest through physical force, while the use of aggression through physical force is occasional for men. Both sexes show little aggression towards objects around them.

In people with somatic diseases, in the case of a heart attack, emotions are high an important factor for their stability, especially the negative ones, and therefore it is necessarily needed an integrative approach to treatment, taking into account the mental state as a whole especially when they are in a state of psychosocial stress.

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Accumulating evidence identifies post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a significant risk factor for the development of dementia, with affected individuals demonstrating a twofold increase in dementia risk compared to the general population. Additionally, the development of dementia in these patients may exacerbate the clinical manifestations associated with PTSD, complicating proper management and treatment.

To describe a clinical case of a patient with a history of PTSD presenting with cognitive impairment, and to provide a brief review of the literature.

Case description and literature review.

A 65-year-old male patient, originally from Colombia, with a documented history of PTSD secondary to kidnapping and armed conflict, presented to psychiatric services in Spain for initial assessment and treatment. The family reports neglect of self-care, persistent hypervigilance, nightmares, and night screams, as well as multiple attentional failures, learning difficulties, and memory impairments. The patient was referred for a neurological consultation where the evaluation included a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scoring 16/30. Cranial MRI showed no abnormalities, and amyloid PET was negative. An FDG PET scan revealed discrete hypometabolism of the medial prefrontal cortex, which could be indicative of possible frontotemporal dementia.

The prevalence of dementia is rising globally. PTSD has been identified as a modifiable risk factor for developing dementia. Furthermore, studies show that the relationship between these conditions is bidirectional, with late-onset PTSD also potentially developing in patients with a diagnosis of dementia. The mechanisms underlying this relationship are poorly understood. It is hypothesized that both conditions share common pathophysiological pathways. PTSD manifestations in patients with dementia are often difficult to recognize, which is believed to result in an underdiagnosis of the condition. Additionally, these clinical manifestations can be confused with neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with dementia, further complicating diagnosis. The relationship between PTSD and dementia may be modifiable if patients with PTSD are provided with appropriate diagnosis and treatment, thereby improving their quality of life and prognosis.

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In the Cognitive-Behavioral Conceptualization of Complicated Grief, avoidance strategies toward bereavement-related stimuli contribute to the development and maintenance of prolonged grief. Traumatic events, such as bereavement, often lead to intrusive negative thoughts and evoke painful emotions. For individuals experiencing prolonged grief, avoidant coping can deteriorate their symptoms. Deliberate rumination on the loss, as an active information-processing strategy to understand and find meaning in the traumatic experience, may promote adaptation to life after the loss.

This study aims to examine the impact of prolonged grief on approach-avoidance behaviors and to evaluate the effects of a deliberate rumination intervention.

Data were collected from 41 Korean adults aged 18 and above, who had experienced bereavement at least 12 months prior. Participants were randomly assigned to either a deliberate rumination intervention group (n=21) or a distraction intervention group (n=20). The Approach-Avoidance Task (AAT) was used to measure implicit approach-avoidance behaviors toward bereavement-related and neutral stimuli in each group, with assessments conducted both before and after the intervention.

The study results revealed no significant differences in approach-avoidance tendencies according to the level of prolonged grief for both bereavement-related and neutral stimuli. However, a significant interaction effect between group and time of measurement was observed for bereavement-related stimuli [F(1,39)=4.431, p<.05], but not for neutral stimuli [F(1,39)=.424, n.s.].

Although this study did not identify significant avoidance tendencies according to prolonged grief levels, it experimentally showed that deliberate rumination influences avoidance strategies among individuals experiencing prolonged grief. This finding implies significance in suggesting effective intervention approaches for those with pathological grief.

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War is the most powerful psychosocial stressor affecting all segments of modern Ukrainian society.

It was conducted a comprehensive examination of 176 patients of both sexes: Group I consisted of 101 military personnel; Group II - 97 volunteers; Group III - 95 IDPs in order to develop a system of personality-oriented treatment of stress-related disorders in persons affected by war.

Clinical and psychopathological examination, which included a structured interview and patient’s observation aimed at studying influence of socio-psychological and biological factors on development of post-stress disorders. Psychodiagnostic method include use: M-PTSD; HADS; HAM-A, HAM-D; Questionnaire of neuropsychological stress by T.A. Nemchin; State-Trait Anxiety Invertory; Methods of diagnosing coping behaviour in stressful situations; Impact of Event Scale-Revised; Clinical Administered PTSD Scale-CAPS; Traumatic Stress Questionnaire; Colombian Suicide Intentions Severity Scale; Methods for determining suicide risk and assessing self-awareness of death in patients with depressive disorder (Kozhyna H.M., Zelenska K.O., 2015); Methods for ‘Diagnosing the level of social frustration (Wasserman L.I., modified by Boyko V.V., 2002).

Clinical structure of stress-related disorders was presented by PTSD and adjustment disorders. Clinical structure of PTSD was represented by anxious, dysphoric, asthenic and somatoform syndromes. System of personality-oriented treatment was developed, including differentiated use of psychopharmacotherapy, psychotherapy and psychoeducation; creation of re-adaptive atmosphere; formation of health-centered lifestyle and based on a salutogenic approach. Pharmacotherapeutic component of developed program included differentiated, targeted use of SSRIs, SNRIs, antipsychotics, tranquilizers and anxiolytics. Psychotherapeutic program was based on identification of dominant resource channels for overcoming stress and finding inner stability using integrative model of psychological survival after severe stress, Basic Ph. Psychotherapeutic support included trauma-focused CBT for all patients, EMDR therapy with additional use of Pucelik Consulting Group’s PTSD Self-Management Program for servicemen patients in Group I; individual crisis therapy for patients in Group II; and interpersonal therapy for patients in Group III. For anxious depressive reactions, CBT and art therapy were used for all patients; with the additional use of problem-solving therapy for patients of Group I; Group II - individual crisis therapy; Group III - mindfulness techniques, relaxation training.

Effectiveness of developed system of personality-oriented treatment of stress-related disorders was proved, and positive dynamics of mental state, reduction of psychopathological symptoms, increased resistance, reduced levels of social and psychological frustration were established.

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Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), as defined in the DSM-5-TR, involves two or more distinct personality states within an individual, along with memory gaps for daily or traumatic events [1]. It is strongly associated with early trauma, such as childhood abuse, and linked to severe psychiatric comorbidities, including depression, anxiety, and self-harm, with an elevated risk of suicide attempts [2][3]. Stress-related neurobiological responses, particularly HPA axis hyperactivity, contribute to identity fragmentation in DID patients. Treatment, often through cognitive-behavioral therapy, aims to integrate dissociated states, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve quality of life [2][3].

In this case study, we present two compelling cases of dissociative identity disorder following a state of stress. We hope this case study will help reveal the possible association of the disorder with stress

This is a retrospective and descriptive case study aimed at exploring the manifestations and associated factors of dissociative identity disorder in patients who have experienced traumatic events.

Clinical Case Summary of Case 1 :

A 24-year-old student developed dissociative identity disorder after witnessing a fatal accident caused by a drunk driver. This trauma fragmented his personality into three identities: a child expressing needs through crying, a rebellious adolescent who smokes, and a feminine, seductive personality. These identities appear involuntarily, especially during periods of stress, causing him anxiety and memory loss regarding these episodes.

Clinical Case Summary of Case 2 :

A 23-year-old single, unemployed patient with a long psychiatric history was admitted following a suicide attempt by jumping. She experiences recurrent depressive episodes, suicidal thoughts, and engages in self-harm to manage her anxiety. Salma has dissociative identity disorder, with an alternate identity named “RUBY” that emerges under stress, driving her towards self-destructive behaviors and exacerbating her distress. Her history includes significant childhood trauma, such as sexual abuse and physical violence, contributing to her identity dissociation. She also exhibits alcohol abuse, consuming up to 1 liter daily to manage her anxiety.

Dissociative identity disorder is a complex condition, often linked to early trauma, characterized by the presence of multiple distinct identities within the same individual. This disorder causes significant distress and impacts patients’ daily functioning, especially in stressful situations. Treatment primarily involves therapeutic approaches aimed at integrating the different identities and reducing self-destructive behaviors. Understanding and managing this disorder require a personalized approach and long-term follow-up.

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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disabling condition that develops after exposure to a traumatic event. Military personnel are particularly affected by this psychiatric condition, which profoundly alters their personal, social and professional lives. Professional redeployment is most often the decision taken to keep these military personnel in the army.

To identify the professional future of military personnel suffering from PTSD

Retrospective descriptive study conducted at the Military Centre for Occupational Medicine and Occupational Safety between 2017 and 2022 among active military personnel requesting occupational redeployment.

We collected 22 cases of professional redeployment for PTSD, representing 24% of all requests for redeployment. Our study population was exclusively male, with a mean age of 30±9 years, mainly from the army (19 cases), divided into officers (3 cases), non-commissioned officers (12 cases) and enlisted men (7 cases). The traumatic event responsible for the PTSD was a mine explosion (8 cases), a road accident (6 cases), a gunshot wound (6 cases), a fall from a parachute (1 case) and an air accident (1 case). All patients had previously been exempted from certain military duties, mainly carrying weapons (22 cases), guards duty (5 cases) and driving vehicles (5 cases). When the decision to reclassify was taken, the military personnel was affected to a mainly administrative post (19 cases), a gardening post (1 case), a plumbing post (1 case) and a catering post (1 case).

This study highlights the fact that PTSD in the military represents a serious and complex challenge that requires special attention. It is imperative to put in place preventive measures and provide appropriate management of PTSD. That can support the military personnel affected and maintain the operational capability of the troops.

None Declared

This study includes the characteristics of Compex PTSD among Ukrainian IDPs who experienced the horrors of the war - during the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022-2024. It also reflects the new and permanent stressors characteristic of the digital age.

Objective of the Study was to identify how cyber age and modern technologies affected on outcomes of traumatic stress.

The study was carried out iamong the victims of the Ukrainian war temporarily displaced in Georgia. A specially developed questionnaire based on the guidelines of the Istanbul Protocol was used.

A total number of direct target beneficiaries applied to the Empathy was n = 68 persons; Most refugees were with experience of war crimes. Mainly two types of life threatening traumatic events was identified: Locally in place of war and Russian occupation; They flowed from Ukraine through the Russian territory and additionally are with experience of ill – treatment during the filtration procedures in the so-called “filtration camps”. Chronic Repetitive Traumatic Stressors were identified as well: Misinformation; Adhering to online war scenes, the vast amount of information flow; Inability to dissociate from warfare. Observed: Rapid development of C - PTSD in 52 persons of total 68. Alongside with PTSD symptoms reveled: Affective Dysregulation – aggression, self – aggression, depression; Feeling of Guilty – for not being in Ukraine, not supporting to their relatives and Country; Problems in interpersonal relations; Addictive behavior; Additional stressors related to the digital warfare and disinformation supported the prolongation of multi natural stressors that consequently created significant problems for recovery.

The results were discussed in the context of Carl Jaspers’ conception regarding reactive conditions. According to his concept, reactive psychoses develop on the basis of a conflict between a person and an unbearable reality for him, and at the same time, this reality is necessarily reflected in the clinical picture of the disease. However, it should be noted that by the 60s, delayed forms of reactive states were described, i.e., forms far removed from the traumatic moment, during which Jasper’s criterion of “time connection” is violated, although the traumatic event is fully reflected in the clinical picture. The reason for this is mainly the prolonged process of intrapsychic processing and final realization of the trauma. The rapid development of complex PTSD under the combined influence of endless multi-stress factors was revealed; The researchers were faced with an effective treatment - the search for ways of rehabilitation in the current multi-stress conditions. Furthermore studies have to be addressed to create new complex recovery strategies in modern multi – face unsolved stress situations.

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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that arises after exposure to traumatic events and is characterized by intrusive memories, emotional dysregulation, and hyperarousal. Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and disrupted circadian rhythms, are often reported in PTSD. However, recent studies suggest that sleep disorders may not only be a consequence of PTSD but could also contribute to its development (DeViva, 2021; Seo et al., 2022). Sleep is crucial in emotional regulation, memory consolidation, and stress recovery. Disruptions in sleep patterns may impair these processes, increasing vulnerability to psychiatric conditions such as PTSD (Zhou, 2023). This systematic review evaluates current evidence on whether sleep disturbances serve as a precursor or risk factor for PTSD across various populations. Understanding the role of sleep disturbances in the onset of PTSD is critical for developing early intervention and prevention strategies.

This systematic review aims to evaluate whether sleep disturbances act as a risk factor for the development of PTSD by synthesizing recent evidence from diverse populations.

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the keywords “PTSD” and “sleep disturbance” in the database on PubMed. Out of 143 studies published within the last five years, eight articles that specifically examined sleep disturbances as a risk factor for PTSD were selected for this review.

The review of selected studies highlights a strong association between sleep disorders and an increased risk of PTSD development across various populations. Poor sleep quality was associated with a 60% greater likelihood of developing PTSD. In a nationally representative sample of U.S. veterans, over 22% reported poor sleep quality, which was a significant predictor of PTSD. (DeViva, 2021). In a study of 67,905 college students, those with sleep disturbances had significantly higher rates of PTSD (52.3% vs. 33.0%) and depression (47.7% vs. 13.2%). (Wang et al., 2022). Moreover, emotional dysregulation, often exacerbated by sleep disorders, was found to aggravate PTSD symptoms further. The studies also indicated that interventions targeting sleep disorders, such as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, not only improved sleep quality but also contributed to a reduction in trauma-related symptoms, suggesting potential for PTSD prevention (Ranney, 2022).

This review highlights that sleep disturbances are a significant risk factor for the development of PTSD. Early identification and treatment of sleep disorders could serve as a preventative strategy for individuals exposed to trauma. Future research should explore the underlying mechanisms of this relationship and the effectiveness of sleep-focused interventions in reducing PTSD risk.

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Achieving excellent sport performance is based both on physical strength and mental endurance. Research demonstrated that children experiencing early maltreatment and traumatization are at an increased risk of high-risk behaviours, bullying, and mental and somatic disorders lasting into adulthood effecting academic and sport performance, relations and life management. Research found that individuals with a history of trauma had a significantly lower chance of being diagnosed with depression or anxiety if they had participated in team sports as adolescents. Also later in life, sport is very beneficial to cope with stressful life events.

We aimed to explore occurrence of early traumas in elite athletes and a control group using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) and the Early Trauma Inventory Self Report-Short Form (ETISR-SF).

The sample included 57 subjects, 50.9% elite athletes and 49.1% leisure time athletes (controls). Participants (64.9% males, 35.1% females) provided demographic data (age 18-58 years, mean age = 31.96 years, SD = 8.920) and completed the ETISR-SF and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form (CTQ-SF). Analysis of Fisher’s Exact Test was performed for evaluating the occurrence of early traumatization.

The ETISR-SF and CTQ subscales scales did not show significant difference in any type of traumas in elite athletes compared to the control group (general traumas p=0.092, emotional abuse p=1.000, physical abuse p=0.592, sexual abuse p=0.297). Occurrence of each trauma type in the two groups were as follows. Elite athletes: sexual trauma (10.34%), physical trauma (55.17%), emotional trauma (44.83%), general trauma (55.17%); Controls: sexual trauma (21.43%), physical trauma (64.29%), emotional trauma (46.43%), general traumas (78.57%).

The occurrence of different type of trauma in our sample is in line with the literature. Physical and emotional abuse among athletes is high. Presumably, those athletes perform better who experience less trauma. The best way to produce resilient athletes is to provide a challenging and supportive sport environment, where athletes feel physically and psychologically safe in their experiences of success and failure.

None Declared

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by intrusive thoughts and flashbacks involving the traumatic event, hypervigilance and avoidance behavior. On the other hand, complex post-traumatic stress disorder (complex PTSD) can result from experiencing chronic trauma. It involves similar stress reponses, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and also avoidance of places and situations related to the traumatic event. Sleep disturbance is a central element of both disorders (PTSD and complex PTSD). While nightmares qualify as a re-experiencing symptom, initiation and maintenance of sleep stem from a hyperarousal state (Paiva et al., 2021). Evidence implies that treatment for PTSD-related sleep disturbance also improves other trauma-related symptoms. As pharmacological therapy, some clinicians use prazosin, an adrenergic inhibitor, which is a lipophilic drug originally developed to treat hypertension. It blocks α1 receptor sites and ameliorates the increase in noradrenergic activity in PTSD-diagnosed individuals (Lipinska G et al. 2016). Studies differ regarding the effectiveness of this drug to alleviate sleep disorders and other trauma-related symptoms (Bajor et al., 2022; Yücel et al., 2020; Zhang et al., 2020; Petrakis et al. 2016).

Through this case series study we want to understand the utility and effectiveness of prazosin in patients diagnosed with PTSD and complex PTSD for the improvement of nightmares and other PTSD-related symptoms.

For this purpose we have reviewed in 10 patients with a diagnosis of either PTSD (4 out of 11) or complex PTSD (7 out of 11) the improvement of nightmares and other trauma-related symptoms, especially flashbacks. The patients indicated whether there was no, partial or total improvement of these symptoms. The doses used were between 1 to 2mg.

In this Case series study (n= 11), we focus on the reports from PTSD - and complex PTSD-diagnosed (4 out of 11 vs 7 out of 11) patients treated with prazosin regarding their sleep disturbance and other trauma-related symptoms.

Forty percent of the patients report a reduction in the frequency and intensity of nightmares, while 3 patients of the sample reported absolute extinction of nightmares.

Our findings reveal almost half of the patiens (4 out of 11) expressed as well a reduction in other PTSD symptoms, specifically in flashbacks.

We have not found a significant better outcome in either PTSD or complex PTSD- diagnosed patients. The entire sample were female patients.

Improvements in hypervigilance and avoidance behavior have hardly been reported in enrolled patients (3 out of 11).

In our sample, the use of prazosin appears to be an acceptably good option, especially for the improvement of nightmares. Nevertheless, further studies should be conduced.

None Declared

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is closely associated with dissociative symptoms. Both of which are common responses to trauma and stress. Yet, not all individuals with C-PTSD experience high levels of dissociation. Currently, little is known about the bidirectional relationship between C-PTSD and dissociative symptoms.

This study aimed to examine whether C-PTSD and dissociative symptoms would predict each other over time.

A total of 340 participants (Mage=21.04 years; SD=2.00; 83.8% female) from Hong Kong and Taiwan completed the Multiscale Dissociation Inventory (MDI) and the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) at two separate time points (M days apart = 129.4 days; SD = 7.91). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between C-PTSD and dissociative symptoms.

The analyses controlled for age, gender, education level, trauma exposure, and baseline severity of the dependent variables. Results indicated that when the MDI subscales were added into the model, baseline emotional constriction significantly predicted subsequent C-PTSD symptoms (i.e., total ITQ scores) (β=.126, p=.008), and significantly improved the model’s explanatory power (R²=.67, ΔR²=.029, ΔF = 4.772, p < .001). Nevertheless, when the same analysis was conducted, none of the six C-PTSD symptom clusters at baseline predicted the total MDI scores at follow-up (ΔF = 1.000, p = .425).

The study findings suggested that dissociative symptoms in general, and emotional constriction in particular, predicted subsequent levels of C-PTSD symptoms, while C-PTSD symptoms did not predict subsequent levels of dissociation. These results highlighted that proactive management of dissociative symptoms might be an important part of the treatment of C-PTSD. This study provided a foundation for future research to investigate the underlying mechanisms by which emotional constriction influences C-PTSD severity. Future research should also evaluate dissociation-focused interventions for people with C-PTSD.

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Depression is commonly comorbid with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. There is a lack of studies evaluating trauma-informed interventions for people with depression and PTSD symptoms.

We examined whether an online, easily accessible, trauma psychoeducation program would be helpful for people with both depressive and PTSD symptoms.

Participants with depression (PHQ-9 ≥ 10) and co-occurring PTSD symptoms were recruited online and randomly assigned to the intervention group (i.e., a 10-session online program based on Be a Teammate With Yourself) or the control group. Outcome measures included the Brief-COPE, a subscale of the Endorsed and Anticipated Stigma Inventory, and the Post-traumatic Maladaptive Beliefs Scale. These outcomes were assessed at baseline, posttest, and 2-month follow-up. Qualitative feedback was also obtained from the participants.

35 participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group, and 34 to the control group. With only email reminders, 9 participants in the intervention group and 14 in the control group completed posttest and follow-up surveys. Completers-only analyses were conducted. One-way repeated measures ANOVA showed that the intervention group had significant reductions in post-traumatic maladaptive beliefs, with a large effect size (F = 4.152, p = .035, Partial Eta Squared = 0.342). The control group did not have such changes. Both groups did not have significant changes in coping and self-stigma. Of 12 participants who provided feedback, 100% agreed that the program could help them remain hopeful for recovery, and 91.6% agreed that they were satisfied with the program. The qualitative feedback also supported the usefulness and acceptability of the programme.

Participation in this program was associated with significant decreases in post-traumatic maladaptive beliefs. Completers were satisfied with the program. Given a small sample with a high dropout rate (66.6%), the results should be interpreted with caution.

None Declared

PTSD is a mental disorder that may develop after exposure to threatening or horrifying events. PTSD is characterized by the following: 1) re-experiencing the traumatic event or events in the present in the form of vivid intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares. Re-experiencing may occur via one or multiple sensory modalities and is typically accompanied by strong or overwhelming emotions, particularly fear or horror, and strong physical sensations; 2) avoidance of thoughts and memories of the event or events, activities, situations, or people reminiscent of the event(s); and 3) persistent perceptions of heightened current threat. The symptoms persist for at least several weeks and cause significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Some reviewes found that PTSD is prevalent during pregnancy and after birth and may increase during postpartum if not identified and treated. It can affect women, their relationship and birth outcomes aswell as infant emotion regulation and development. The findings indicate that there are links between psychological, traumatic and birth-related risk factors as well as the perceived social support and the possible PTSD following childbirth in mothers and partners.

A case report is presented alongside a review of the relevant literature regarding the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of PTSD.

We present a case report of a 34-year-old woman with no previous contact with Mental Health Services. She got pregnant unexpectedly in the context of a long stable relationship. At the beginning she was feeling uncertain about carrying on with the pregnancy but finally decided to keep it. She states she felt well throughout the pregnancy. The night after giving birth her baby suffered from a cardiorespiratory arrest, which was noticed by the nursing team but not by the mother. The baby recovered with no medical sequelae but the patient started feeling depressed and presenting anergy, apathy, irritability, flashbacks, and intrusive memories of her sick baby and insomnia, checking every hour during the night that her child was still breathing. Later she developed separation anxiety from her baby, not being able to leave her in the kindergartner nor to leave her alone with other family members (including the father). Guilty feelings were persistantly observed during the therapy sessions.

Psychotherapeutic and pharmacological treatment was started with moderate improvement. Since breastfeeding was a rewarding experience and enforced the mother-daughter bond it was taken in consideration for the therapeutic plan.

The postpartum period is of special vulnerability and early treatment of symptoms in mothers is of great importance. Early diagnosis in maternity services should be a priority.

None Declared

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health statue that arises from traumatic events featuring by intrusive memories of the incident, difficulty in interpersonal relationships, recurrent distress, avoidance of similar situations and flashbacks. Although conventional treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and medications like prazosin are widely used and supported by scientific evidence, an increasing number of individuals are turning to alternative treatments. For instance, mind-body practices have demonstrated therapeutic benefits for stress reduction, including decreased anxiety, depression, and anger, as well as improved pain tolerance, self-esteem, relaxation, and coping abilities. Practices such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation, which involve physical postures, stretching, and deep breathing, are gaining popularity for managing PTSD symptoms. Additionally, lifestyle changes, diet, mindful breathing, Ayurvedic medicine, and somatic therapies like dance therapy are increasingly recognized as valuable tools for improving quality of life in trauma survivors Clinicians should discuss mind-body interventions with their patients and educate them about the potential benefits of them to maximize the diversity of treatment options.

This review aims to explore both conventional and alternative approaches for PTSD treatment, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and complementary practices such as exercise, diet, meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and dance therapy.

The study is a literature review conducted through PubMed.

The studies included in this review exhibited considerable heterogeneity, with varying designs, intervention methods, and study durations, as well as differing use of control groups. As a result, conducting a true meta-analysis was not feasible.

“Mind-body practices” incorporate numerous therapeutic effects on stress responses, including reductions in anxiety, depression, and anger, and increases in pain-tolerance, self-esteem, energy levels, ability to relax, and ability to cope with stressful situations.

Given the limitations in the current evidence for conventional treatments and the growing use of complementary and alternative approaches, there is a pressing need for more comprehensive re-search into these alternative therapies. Future studies should aim to evaluate the effectiveness of mind-body interventions and other complementary practices as potential treatments for PTSD.

None Declared