Complex post-traumatic stress disorder in asylum seekers and victims of trafficking: treatment considerations. Issue 6 (1st November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jowett, Sally; Argyriou, Angeliki; Scherrer, Odile; Karatzias, Thanos; Katona, Cornelius
• Is Part Of: BJPsych open. Volume 7:Issue 6(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-11-01
• Subjects: Trauma -- psychosocial interventions -- CPTSD -- asylum seekers -- refugees; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Mental health -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2021.1007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2056-4724

Abstract

Abstract : Asylum-seekers experience high levels of traumatic events pre-, post- and during migration. Poly-traumatisation is associated with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD), which has not yet been extensively explored in this population. CPTSD is a prevalent and highly disabling disorder in the present population requiring culturally sensitive diagnostic and treatment approaches. In this service evaluation, we evidence the high prevalence of CPTSD in an asylum-seeking sample and its association with greater distress compared with PTSD. We outline the treatment needs of asylum seekers with CPTSD.