Screening people at risk of PTSD can help prevent further cases going unnoticed

Latest edition of Australian Prescriber out now

When people have repeated non-specific health problems, it could be related to previous exposure to traumatic events. GPs may be seeing more patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as military personnel return from overseas deployments.

In the latest issue of Australian Prescriber psychiatrists Duncan Wallace from the Australian Defence Force Centre for Mental Health and John Cooper from the University of Melbourne provide an update on PTSD. They suggest that screening people at risk of PTSD will help prevent further cases going unnoticed.

Examples of potentially traumatic events include natural disasters, severe accidents and assaults and occupational exposures in groups such as the military and law enforcement. Symptoms of PTSD present in various ways, such as distressing memories, disturbed dreams or flashbacks. Other people may experience uncharacteristic anger or violence. Subtle symptoms include increased problems at work, changes in personality, social isolation, insomnia and anxiety.

Dr Wallace says:

PTSD is probably more common in Australia than many people realise. The estimated prevalence is 5.2% within the community and 8.3% in the Australian Defence Force.

Trauma-focused psychological therapies are recommended as the most effective first-line treatment. If medicines are required, usually a type of antidepressant is used.

It is also important to be aware of support and self-help groups for trauma victims.