Uso del protocolo NADA para el síndrome de estrés postraumático en Kenia

Abstract

Background The five needle auricular acupuncture technique known as the NADA protocol was originally developed to address issues of addiction. It has since found wider applications in behavioral health, including use in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Objective To optimize applications of the NADA protocol as it is used in communities affected by physical or mental trauma, particularly those residing in developing countries. Methods NADA trainings were conducted in Kenya among refugees after the 2007 post-election violence which left hundreds of thousands of persons displaced and traumatized. Conclusion Our experience shows that the NADA protocol can have a profound effect on communities experiencing hardship and transition. Elements we found to be important to the success of such trainings include sponsorship by an international agency, contacts among local serviceproviding organizations, inclusion of community members in decision-making, follow-up communication with all collaborators and participants, and complete flexibility around clearly defined goals.