Treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder - A review

PTSD is a frequent subject of empirical psychiatric research. There is, however, little knowledge about the efficacy of treatment methods. In this review, general therapeutic guidelines and common components of different psychotherapies are described. Approaches of behaviour, cognitive, psychodynamic and hypnotherapy are outlined. Controlled studies show the reduction of intrusive PTSD-symptoms in behaviour therapy. Effects of psychodynamic therapy on avoidance symptoms have been demonstrated in one study. Family and group therapy are described, their efficacy has not been empirically tested yet. The need to integrate different concepts and models is emphasized. Special guidelines in the treatment of victims of political persecution are summarized. In pharmacotherapy positive effects on partial PTSD-symptoms has been shown in particular for SSRI-antidepressants. Pharmacotherapy may be a useful addition to psychotherapy. Fixed guidelines for the treatment of PTSD can not be set up yet.