Post-traumatic stress disorder. A brief overview.

BACKGROUND

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder which occurs following exposure to a traumatic, potentially life threatening event. It is frequently comorbid with other anxiety and mood disorders, substance misuse and physical symptoms that may cloud its presentation. In itself, PTSD is a frequently chronic disabling condition associated with a marked impact on social, occupational and family functioning that also carries an increased risk of suicide. Early intervention once the disorder is present, represents the most effective chance of reducing disability. Appropriate diagnosis and referral are among the key skills required by the general practitioner to deal with this condition.

OBJECTIVE

This article aims to provide an overview of PTSD for GPs including clinical features, epidemiological aspects, approach to assessment and treatment, and specialist resources available.

DISCUSSION

Recent world events including terrorist attacks, wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and Middle East turmoil have raised community awareness of the impact of trauma. General practitioners are in a unique position to be involved in the early diagnosis and treatment of PTSD, which has been shown to improve outcome.