Is Prevention Better than Cure? How Early Interventions Can Prevent PTSD

Abstract

In reference to the necessity of providing early interventions following mass disasters such as 9/11, the authors suggest that the focus on the need for immediate intervention for those psychologically affected by traumatic events might be misplaced. In the debate regarding provision of interventions in the aftermath of a trauma, opinions range from mandatory provision of such services (e.g., Hokanson & Wirth, International Journal of Emergency Mental Health 2(4): 249–257, 2000) to the recommendation of wait, reevaluate, and delay treatment until necessary (e.g., Brewin et al., Journal of Traumatic Stress 21(1): 3–8, 2008). In this chapter, we will review the rationale for preventing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and review the studies examining early interventions for PTSD. In addition, the results of a large effectiveness and efficacy study of early PTSD treatment will be discussed. Lastly, the implications of these studies will be evaluated in terms of service planning and provision.