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Mental Health Disorders and Healthcare after Potentially Traumatic Events
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Mental Health Disorders and Healthcare after Potentially Traumatic Events

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Disaster Medicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2023) | Viewed by 14127

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Cécile Vuillermoz

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institut Pierre Louis d’Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique (IPLESP), Inserm, Department of Social Epidemiology, Sorbonne Université, F75012 Paris, France
Interests: mass trauma; mental health disorders; mental healthcare; social epidemiology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The COVID-19 pandemic has encouraged research regarding trauma and mental health; nevertheless, the pandemic highlights that research on mental health and healthcare after trauma is limited.

Firstly, many studies have been published on the prevalence of mental health disorders during the pandemic, but it is also important to conduct research on other mass traumatic events (e.g., terrorist attacks, natural or technological disasters, war) or interpersonal traumatic events. Secondly, publications have highlighted the lack of studies concerning the feasibility and efficacy of interventions in mental healthcare after a traumatic event. Thus, it is necessary to gather more information regarding the means and tools which can help us prevent mental health disorders from occurring and increase the chances of recovery. Thirdly, while this crisis has revealed and deepened social inequalities in mental health and mental healthcare utilization, it has also revealed a lack of indicators to investigate and explain these social disparities. Therefore, in order to prevent mental health disorders after trauma, it is necessary to identify which social groups are more at risk of developing or presenting disorders.

The aim of this Special Issue is to improve our understanding of the psychological consequences and mental healthcare after traumatic events in the short, medium and long term. 

Dr. Cécile Vuillermoz
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • traumatic event
  • mental health disorders
  • mental healthcare
  • mass disaster
  • individual trauma
  • social inequalities

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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19 pages, 912 KiB  
Article
Determinants of Care Pathways for C-PTSD Patients in French Psychotrauma Centers: A Qualitative Study
by Germain Salome, Philippe Vignaud, Perrine Galia, Nathalie Prieto and Nicolas Chauliac
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(13), 6278; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20136278 - 2 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2720
Abstract
In 2018, the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) established a novel nosographic category within the stress-specific disorders known as complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD). Characterized by distinctive clinical attributes and a limited response to conventional PTSD treatments, C-PTSD has prompted the reconsideration of [...] Read more.
In 2018, the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) established a novel nosographic category within the stress-specific disorders known as complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD). Characterized by distinctive clinical attributes and a limited response to conventional PTSD treatments, C-PTSD has prompted the reconsideration of care methods. Our study’s purpose was to explore the intricate factors shaping the care pathways for individuals suffering from C-PTSD. We used a grounded theorization technique involving professionals across a range of specialized French psychotraumatology institutions. The resulting comprehensive theoretical model offers valuable insights into the constitution mechanisms of these pathways, helping elucidate the varying care options. Interestingly, we found that differences in clinical perspectives were determined by the care provider’s viewpoint on clinical guidelines, screening tools, and treatment options, but also by structural and organizational factors. The distinctive dynamics and interrelationships identified in our research reveal potential areas of focus for incorporating C-PTSD care more effectively into specialized French trauma centers. This investigation offers a path toward improved understanding and management of C-PTSD, ultimately advancing patient outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Disorders and Healthcare after Potentially Traumatic Events)
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14 pages, 1187 KiB  
Article
Experiences of Inter-Hospital Transfers (IHT) by Patients and Relatives during the COVID-19 Pandemic in France: A Qualitative Study
by Nicolas Chauliac, Germain Salome, Juliette Cheucle, Lou Cochennec De Biase, Perrine Galia, Audrey Thomas, Olivier Grimaud, Jean-Marc Philippe, Philippe Vignaud and Nathalie Prieto
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4660; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054660 - 6 Mar 2023
Viewed by 1743
Abstract
Background: The first wave of the COVID-19 epidemic led to a rapid and unexpected saturation of the French ICU, forcing the health care system to adapt. Among other emergency measures, inter-hospital transfers were carried out. Objective: To assess the psychological experience of patients [...] Read more.
Background: The first wave of the COVID-19 epidemic led to a rapid and unexpected saturation of the French ICU, forcing the health care system to adapt. Among other emergency measures, inter-hospital transfers were carried out. Objective: To assess the psychological experience of patients and their relatives regarding inter-hospital transfers. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with transferred patients and their relatives. A phenomenological study design was used to examine subjective experiences and their meanings for the participants. Results: The analysis found nine axes pertaining to the experiences of IHT (inter-hospital transfers), grouped in three super-ordinate themes: Information about inter-hospital transfers, differences in patients’ and relatives’ experiences, and host hospital experience. It appears that patients felt little impacted by the transfers, unlike relatives who experienced intense anxiety when the transfer was announced. Good communications between patients and their relatives resulted in a good level of satisfaction regarding their host hospitals. COVID-19 and its somatic consequences seem to have had more psychological impact on the participants than the transfers by themselves. Conclusion: Our results suggest that there are limited current psychological consequences of the IHT implemented during the first wave of COVID-19, although the involvement of patients and their relatives in the organization of the IHT at the time of transfer could further limit them. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Disorders and Healthcare after Potentially Traumatic Events)
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14 pages, 1049 KiB  
Article
PTSD and Partial PTSD among First Responders One and Five Years after the Paris Terror Attacks in November 2015
by Clémentine Prioux, Maude Marillier, Cécile Vuillermoz, Stéphanie Vandentorren, Gabrielle Rabet, Matthieu Petitclerc, Thierry Baubet, Lise Eilin Stene, Philippe Pirard and Yvon Motreff
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4160; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054160 - 25 Feb 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2809
Abstract
Following the Paris terror attacks in November 2015, a large number of first responders (FR) were mobilized and consequently were at risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Based on the ESPA 13 November survey, the objectives of this study were to 1) [...] Read more.
Following the Paris terror attacks in November 2015, a large number of first responders (FR) were mobilized and consequently were at risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Based on the ESPA 13 November survey, the objectives of this study were to 1) describe the prevalence of PTSD and partial PTSD in FR five years after the attacks, 2) describe the changes in PTSD and partial PTSD from one to five years after the attacks, and 3) examine factors associated with PTSD and partial PTSD five years after the attacks. Data were collected using an online questionnaire. PTSD and partial PTSD were measured using the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist based on the DSM-5 (PCL-5). Gender, age, responder category, education level, exposure, mental health history, history of traumatic events, training, social support, concern about the COVID-19 epidemic, and somatic problems present after the attacks were all analyzed as potential factors associated with PTSD and partial PTSD using multinomial logistic regression. A total of 428 FR were included 5 years after the attacks, of which 258 had participated also 1 year after the attacks. Five years after the attacks, the prevalence of PTSD and partial PTSD were 8.6% and 22%, respectively. Presence of somatic problems after the attacks were associated with PTSD. Involvement in dangerous crime scenes was associated with a higher risk of partial PTSD. No awareness of psychological risks in the context of professional activity through specific training was associated with partial PTSD, in particular among participants aged 45 years or more. To mitigate PTSD for FR, monitoring mental health symptoms, providing mental health education, and providing treatment may be needed for several years after the attacks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Disorders and Healthcare after Potentially Traumatic Events)
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14 pages, 685 KiB  
Article
Threat through the Screen? Association between Proximity and/or Watching Media Coverage of a Terrorist Attack and Health
by Roel Van Overmeire, Lise Eilin Stene, Marie Vandekerckhove, Stefaan Six, Reginald Deschepper and Johan Bilsen
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(4), 2876; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20042876 - 7 Feb 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1844
Abstract
Introduction: After terrorist attacks, media coverage of the attacks is extensive. There are some indications that there is an association between watching the media coverage and certain health reactions, both mental and somatic. Most studies occur in the United States and often months [...] Read more.
Introduction: After terrorist attacks, media coverage of the attacks is extensive. There are some indications that there is an association between watching the media coverage and certain health reactions, both mental and somatic. Most studies occur in the United States and often months after the initial attack. In the current study, we investigated the terrorist attacks in Belgium on 22 March 2016. Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted one week after the attacks among the general population of Belgium. We measured hours of media watching of the terrorist attacks (hereafter media watching), adjusted scales of the Patient Health Questionaire-4 (PHQ-4) to measure mental symptoms and the Patient Health Questionaire-15 (PHQ-15) to measure somatic symptoms, proximity to Brussels (home, work and overall proximity) and background factors such as gender, age and level of education. Respondents were included if they answered the survey between 29 March 2016 and 5 April 2016. Results: A total of 2972 respondents were included. Overall, media watching was significantly associated with both mental symptoms (p < 0.001) and somatic symptoms (p < 0.001), while controlling for age, gender, level of education and proximity. Watching more than three hours of media was associated with more mental and somatic symptoms (p < 0.001). Compared to proximity, media watching was, in general, a better association. For geographical factors, watching more than three hours of media indicated equally high scores for mental symptoms and somatic symptoms as work proximity (p = 0.015) and overall proximity to the attacks (p = 0.024). Conclusion: Media-watching is associated with acute health reactions after terrorist attacks. However, the direction of the relationship is unclear, as it might also be that people with health issues seek out more media. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Disorders and Healthcare after Potentially Traumatic Events)
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21 pages, 414 KiB  
Article
PTSD and PTG in French and American Firefighters: A Comparative Study
by Charlotte Henson, Didier Truchot and Amy Canevello
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 11973; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191911973 - 22 Sep 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2168
Abstract
Studies show that experiencing traumatic events can lead to positive psychological change, or posttraumatic growth (PTG). In the hope of promoting PTG, authors have been focusing on identifying the factors that may foster PTG. Despite these attempts, the literature shows inconsistencies, making it [...] Read more.
Studies show that experiencing traumatic events can lead to positive psychological change, or posttraumatic growth (PTG). In the hope of promoting PTG, authors have been focusing on identifying the factors that may foster PTG. Despite these attempts, the literature shows inconsistencies, making it difficult to know which variables may be involved in the process of growth. Indeed, authors seem to disagree on the nature of the relationship between PTSD and PTG, time since the event, social support, intrusive rumination, and sociodemographics. Thus, this study aims to clarify these discrepancies, and verify whether the processes involved are the same across two different cultural groups, both of which are confronted with traumatic events regularly: 409 American firefighters, and 407 French firefighters. Results indicate that, in both samples, PTG is positively related to PTSD, subjective perceptions of the event, stress during the event, disruption of core-beliefs, and deliberate rumination; and unrelated to social support, core-self evaluations, and socio-demographic variables (age, gender, relationship status, etc.). However, time since the event and the number of years on the job only predicted PTG in the American sample, while colleague and emotional support only predicted PTG in the French sample. Additionally, American firefighters reported more growth, more social support, more positive self-perceptions, more intrusive rumination, and more neuroticism than French firefighters. These results suggest that the process of growth, as defined by Tedeschi and Calhoun, is relatively stable among firefighters, but that some differences do exist between cultural groups. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Disorders and Healthcare after Potentially Traumatic Events)

Other

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26 pages, 674 KiB  
Systematic Review
Evaluation of Multidimensional Functional Impairment in Adult Sexual Assault Survivors, with a Focus on Its Psychological, Physical, and Social Dimensions, Based on Validated Measurements: A PRISMA Systematic Review
by Thibault Schalk, Juliette Oliero, Emma Fedele, Victor Trousset and Thomas Lefèvre
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(14), 6373; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20146373 - 15 Jul 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2115
Abstract
Sexual violence (SV) is widely prevalent around the world: according to studies, 18 to 51% of women and 1 to 9% of men experience it at some point in their lives. Yet, experiences of SV are rarely disclosed outside the private sphere. Pathologies, [...] Read more.
Sexual violence (SV) is widely prevalent around the world: according to studies, 18 to 51% of women and 1 to 9% of men experience it at some point in their lives. Yet, experiences of SV are rarely disclosed outside the private sphere. Pathologies, acute or chronic, can be associated with SV. The study of the links between SV and health is often fragmented, viewed through the lens of a specific pathology, yet SV certainly has an impact on the different dimensions of the functioning of survivors (physical, psychological, social, and so on), whether or not there is an identified pathology at the origin of this impact. No synthesis of the knowledge on functional impairment in adult sexual assault survivors has been identified to date. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review according to the PRISMA recommendations, focusing on the assessment via validated scales or standardized measurements of the different dimensions of functional impairment in sexual assault survivors aged 15 and over, excluding abuse in childhood and polyvictimization. We searched the Medline database from its inception to October 2022, identifying 1130 articles. Two evaluators carried out their analysis, and fifty-one articles were retained. In the end, only 13 articles were included. Their quality was assessed by referring to their compliance with STROBE recommendations. Of these 13 articles, only 4 have a quality level deemed to be satisfactory, and they relate to 4 dimensions of functioning: psychological, sexual, physical (pain), and social. The main results were that survivors reported increased restrictions of activities, sexual dysfunctions such as vulvodynia or dyspareunia, decreased social satisfaction and functioning, and decreased self-esteem and quality of life compared to the general population. To date, evidence for functional impairment is very limited, preventing researchers and clinicians from gaining clear and well-established knowledge about the functioning of sexual assault survivors. Research in this area needs to evolve urgently. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Disorders and Healthcare after Potentially Traumatic Events)
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