Trauma Response

Question 1

List some risk factors for heightened responses to trauma

Answer 1

Sudden, unexpected event
Man-made rather than natural
Prolonged exposure
Threat to life, death
Personal factors (family)

Question 2

What is associated with the highest incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder?

Answer 2

Rape

Question 3

What is the freeze response?

Answer 3

Body goes into shutdown with immobility in the presence of “inevitable” danger (think of a deer on the road)

Question 4

List some clinical features of complex PTSD

Answer 4

Low self-esteem, self-blame
Hopelessness
Somatisation
Mood disturbance
Self-harm

Question 5

What is the most emotionally charged part of the brain?

Answer 5

Amygdala

Question 6

List the main features of PTSD (FAANDER)

Answer 6

Flashbacks
Nightmares
Avoidance
Arousal (increased)
Emotional numbness
Dissociation
Re-enactment

Question 7

How long after a traumatic event can PTSD be diagnosed?

Answer 7

3 months after

Question 8

If trauma symptoms are mild and present for less than 4 weeks, what is the treatment?

Answer 8

Watchful waiting with support

Question 9

List some psychotherapy that may be used for PTSD

Answer 9

CBT
EMDR
Media therapy
Mindfulness

Question 10

Which antidepressant is licensed for use in PTSD?

Answer 10

Paroxetine (SSRI)