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European Journal of Psychotraumatology logoLink to European Journal of Psychotraumatology
. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745. doi: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2197745

Symposia

PMCID: PMC10269414
Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

43: International perspectives on trauma and resilience in adult survivors of institutional child abuse in Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria

Myriam V Thoma 1,2, Florence Bernays 3, Andreas Maercker 1,2, Shauna L Rohner 1,9, Aileen N Salas Castillo 2,9, Jessica Michel 1, Alan Carr 4,5, Brigitte Lueger-Schuster 6, Matthias Knefel 6, Viktora Kantor 6, Dina Weindl 6, Heide Glaesmer 7, Maya Böhm 7,8, Doreen Hoffmann 7

Abstract

Track: Child & Adolescent Trauma

Several international cohorts of older adults have experienced institutional (welfare-related) abuse and neglect in childhood. While child maltreatment can impact physical and mental health, the long-term effects, potential for resilience, and associated factors are not well understood. Addressing this, this symposium brings together qualitative and quantitative research from four international cohorts (Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Austria). Two talks present data from a project within the National Research Program 76 “Welfare and Coercion – Past, Present and Future”, assessing physical and mental health correlates in Swiss survivors and trauma disclosure in Irish survivors. One talk presents data from the TESTIMONY-Project on child maltreatment experiences in survivors of residential care settings in the former German Democratic Republic (GDR). One talk presents data from the Vienna Institutional Abuse Study on lifetime traumatization and psychopathological long-term correlates in Austrian survivors. These presentations will be preceded by a brief general introduction and followed by a discussion.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

52: Grief from childhood to adulthood: A family perspective

Iris van Dijk 2, Paul A Boelen 2,7, Jos De Keijser 3, Lonneke Lenferink 1, Maja O'Connor 5, Carline J M Van Heijningen 4, S R Van Berkel 4, A H Haccou 4, A L Van der Voort 4, B M Elzinga 9, L R A Alink 4, Birgit Wagner 6, Laura Hofmann 6, Ulrike Maass 8

Abstract

Track: Child & Adolescent Trauma

The loss of a parent or sibling can have a long-term impact on the mental health of the surviving child/sibling throughout childhood and adulthood. This symposium presents studies, using various methods, examining the assessment, prediction, and treatment of grief-related distress after (childhood) loss of a nuclear family member. Van Dijk presents findings from a Dutch validation-study of a new interview assessing DSM-5-TR and ICD-11 prolonged grief disorder (PGD) symptoms in bereaved children (aged 8-18). To what extent PGD levels are transmissible between parents and their children is discussed by Lenferink and O’Connor using a four-wave longitudinal survey-design among 257 Danish adult parent-child dyads. Van Heijningen presents findings from an interview-study exploring 60 Dutch adults’ experiences regarding factors they experienced as supportive/unsupportive in adapting to childhood parental death. Findings from a randomized waitlist-control trial examining effects of an Internet-based CBT for German bereaved sibling (N = 86; aged 16-65) are presented by Wagner.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

52: Adult survivors of childhood interpersonal trauma: Resiliency mechanisms and barriers in diverse populations

Camille-Andree Rassa 1,2,3, Alison Paradis 1, Natacha Godbout 1,2,3, Cloe Canivet 1,2,3, David Lafortune 1, Marianne Girard 1,2,3, Mylène Fernet 1, Elise Villeneuve 1,2,3, Luciana Lassance 1

Abstract

Track: Child & Adolescent Trauma

Childhood interpersonal trauma is related to a host of long-term repercussions for survivors, which may impact their well-being and also spill over and affect the well-being of their partner and offspring. An increased understanding of the factors fostering survivors’ resiliency is needed to guide intervention strategies. This symposium features four empirical studies led in different populations. Rassart will discuss their data on the role of mindfulness in the link uniting childhood interpersonal trauma and parenting alliance in parents of an infant. Canivet will present their results on the links between sexual fantasies and sexual well-being in adult survivors. Girard will share their metasynthesis of available studies of risk and resiliency factors related to revictimization in women. Villeneuve will present data on the role of mentalization in the link between fathers’ childhood trauma and their child’s psychological health. Godbout (Chair) will introduce the symposium and facilitate the discussion following the presentations.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

73: Trauma sequelae beyond "classic" PTSD

Andreas Maerck 1, Rita Rosner 2, Evaldas Kazlauskas 3, Heide Glaesmer 4, Maya Böhm 4,5, Doreen Hoffmann 4

Abstract

Track: Assessment & Diagnosis

In psychotraumatology, there exists now the sibling diagnosis of complex PTSD to the "classic" PTSD. Complex PTSD has rightly received extensive attention in research and clinical application in recent years. However, adjustment disorder and prolonged grief disorder have also gained prominence. The concept of "Historical Trauma" has emerged from research on Indigenous Americans, which describes how traumatic experiences from several decades or generations ago continue to have a pathological impact on people today, in the face of discrimination and marginalization. This symposium presents innovative contributions from several European countries on the above concepts. Two papers will present theoretical overviews and two will report from large studies in Germany, Lithuania and Japan. The symposium will begin with a short introduction.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

89: Breaking the silence: Mothers with a child born of sexual violence

Eline Meuleman 1, Elisa van Ee 1, Jorin Blokland 2, Melanie Sloover 3, Leanne Van Est 3, Peter Janssen 3, Mirrian Hilbink-Smolders 3, Kimberly Anderson 3, Yvonne Montfoort 1, Julia Bala 1, Adriana Jasperse 1

Abstract

Track: Assessment & Diagnosis

In the literature estimates of the number of pregnancies after sexual violence run from 5-18%, depending on the circumstances. In times of complex emergencies however the incidence of gender-based violence and rape-related pregnancies strongly increases. Recently, allegations of sexual violence by Russian troops against Ukraine women were mounting, while for many women the option of abortion was not available. Therefor the experience of sexual violence related pregnancies may be particularly prevalent among refugees. Despite this significant number, very little attention has been paid to the wellbeing of these women who give birth. In this symposium the myriad consequences for these mothers and their children, and treatment options are highlighted. First, knowledge and skills base of practitioners will be discussed. Secondly, expert opinions and opportunities for treatment will be presented. Thirdly, mentalization as a transdiagnostic factor in understanding these difficulties is elucidated. Finally, the state-of-art research results are translated to clinical practice.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

108: Moral injury in Europe and beyond. Understanding the societal and cultural backdrop to the moral injury experience

Anna Harwood-Gross 1, Eric Vermetten 2, Larysa Zasiekina 3

Abstract

Track: Military & Emergency Services & their families

Moral injury (MI) has thus far predominately been studied in a North American setting. Given the known impact of culture and societal beliefs on cognitive understandings and consequences of traumatic events, it thus follows that moral injury too will have varying presentations based on the cultural and occupational context. This symposium on MI in an international setting brings together researchers from Ukraine, Israel and the Netherlands to share their findings on MI from their respective countries and beyond. While each individual presentation is of interest, ample time will be allocated to discuss the integration of findings and how current findings are impacting future research directions.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

114: Campus sexual violence victimization among university students in Northern Ireland and in the United States

Ngozi Anyadike-Danes 2, Susan Lagdon 2, Megan Reynolds 4, Chérie Armour 3, Hannah Holt 1, William Flack 1, Megan Kopitsky 1, Lily Shorney 1

Abstract

Track: Public Health, Biological &/or Medical

The high prevalence of campus sexual assault victimization (CSAV) among university students in Europe, the United States (U.S.) and much of the rest of the world is now well documented as a serious global public health issue (UN Women, 2018). The presentations in this symposium, two based on research in Northern Ireland and two on research in the U.S., help to fill in gaps in the literature related to regional prevalence rates, psychosocial consequences, and both proximal and distal risk factors for CSAV. Whether demonstrating existence of the problem in areas where this has not yet been done or examining its under-studied causes, correlates, and consequences, comparison and sharing of such information will be crucial in developing a more comprehensive model for intervention and prevention.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

116: Challenges and opportunities among families of military members from three cultural contexts

Nora Trompeter 2, Helene Oldrup 7, Morten Kyed 3,5, Ann-Dorte Pedholt Christensen 3,5, Anni BS Nielsen 4,6, Gadi Zerach 8, Tamar Gordon-Shalev 8, Limor Zitronblat 1, Rachel Dekel 1

Abstract

Track: Military & Emergency Services & their families

The symposium will focus on different military family members – parents, spouses, and children in three cultural contexts: England, Denmark, and Israel. It will enable participants to learn more about the unique challenges and opportunities of military family members. Presentations will include four studies, the first two of which are about children. The first will explore the mental health needs of children with special education needs and/or disabilities among UK military sample. The second will focus on the well-being of children of formerly deployed Danish fathers Two additional Israeli studies will focus on 1) the mutual adjustment of combat commanders and their spouses, and 2) distress tolerance and posttraumatic stress among young combat veterans and their parents.

These presentations will enable a discussion about differences and similarities in coping – depending on family role and culture – and will contribute to the theory of family coping with deployment.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

126: Mental health in refugees – insights into factors affecting mental health and characteristics of treatment-seeking refugees

Heide Glaesmer 1, Maria Böttche 2,6, Angela Nickerson 5, Vivian Mai 5, David Keegan 7, Nicholas Proctor 8, Suresh Sundram 9, Casey Willoughby 5, Belinda J Liddell 5, Yuriy Nesterko 1,2, Kim Schönenberg 1, Leni Linthoug 4,10, Theresa Koch 3, Brigitte Dumser 11, Nadine Stammel 6

Abstract

Track: Refugee or war & conflict related traumatic stress

Refugees usually face cumulative traumatic experiences before, during and after flight and are exposed to other flight related risk factors. As a consequence, a large proportion of refugees suffer from mental disorders, most often from depression, anxiety and PTSD. While there is extensive evidence on risk factors for mental disorders in refugees, little is known on protective and promotive factors and some risk factors a still scarcely investigated. Therefore, the symposium provides a systematic review of protective factors and focusses on perceived discrimination as a specific risk factor in Syrian refugees in a large German city and its association with mental health. In addition, a taboo topic, the risk of sexual violence among male refugees on their way to the UK will be brought into focus. Finally, mental health care structures for refugees in Germany are presented and data from two large care centres are discussed.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

154: Unique interventions for PTSD

Rachel Dekel 1, Yael Shoval-Zuckerman 1, Sara Freedman 1, Renana Eitan 4, Valentino Mancuso 5, Chiara Stramba-Badiale 5, Yossi Attias 1, Pietro Cipresso 6, Gabriella Wexler Tanami 1,2, Odeta Gelezelyte 3, Austeja Dumarkaite 3, Auguste Nomeikaite 3, Evaldas Kazlauskas 3

Abstract

Track: Intervention Research & Clinical Studies

The symposium will focus on unique interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – for patients, couples, and healthcare workers – in two different geographical/cultural contexts: Lithuania and Israel. Presentations will include four studies. The first will explore an internet-delivered stress recovery intervention based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) among nurses during COVID-19. The second will focus on self-defense workshops for female soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Third will present a randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to compare a novel, internet-based modular treatment that uses virtual reality, vs. prolonged exposure. The fourth will introduce a multi-couple group version of cognitive behavioral conjoint therapy (CBCT) for PTSD delivered over a single weekend.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

160: Novel insights from sex- and gender-sensitive investigations of PTSD risk and recovery

Mirjam van Zuiden 1,2, Stephanie Haering 3,4, Alyssa Roeckner 5, Katharina Schultebraucks 6, Liat Helpman 7, Lars Schulze 8, Angelika Geiling 3, Caroline Meyer 3, Hannah Klusmann 3, Sarah Schumacher 9, Christine Knaevelsrud 3, Sinha Engel 3, Vasiliki Michopoulos 5, Sanne van Rooij 5, Tanja Jovanovic 10, Kerry Ressler 11, Jennifer Stevens 5, Naomi Fine 7, Dafna Armon 7, Zivya Seligman 7, Talma Hendler 7, Miki Bloch 7

Abstract

Track: Assessment & Diagnosis

Women are approximately twice as likely to develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than men.

To establish more effective preventive and treatment interventions, it is essential to strive towards more sex- and gender-sensitive research. This symposium showcases novel research investigating gender- and sex-specificity in PTSD development, risk prognosis and intervention mechanisms. The first presentation reviews the field’s current state with respect to sex- and gender-sensitive research and provides meta-analytic results on the post-traumatic timing at which sex/gender differences manifest. The second presentation concerns a prospective study finding sex-specific predictive value of early post-trauma neuroimaging predictors for PTSD development, providing novel insights for early PTSD risk prognosis. Relatedly, the third presentation discusses the presence of and methods to decrease gender-related biases in novel computational approaches for early PTSD risk prognosis. Finally, novel findings on sex-specific factors (intra-cyclical sex hormone fluctuations) influencing clinical and neurobiological effects of innovative PTSD treatment are presented.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

199: Innovation in Combat Stress mental health services for UK military veterans with PTSD and C-PTSD: i) Intensive treatment service for PTSD and C-PTSD; ii) Online stabilisation groups, an exemplar: Compassion-focused therapy; iii) The acceptability and impact of veteran led peer support; iv) Working with veterans' families through the treatment pathway

Naomi Wilson 1, Catherine Kinane 1,3,4, Dave Aitken 1, Lauren Quigley 1, Deborah Lee 2,5, Mhairi Stewart 2, Julie Thorp 1, Reema Mudhoo 2

Abstract

Track: Military & Emergency Services & their families

Combat Stress is the UK's leading charity for veterans' mental health and since the end of the First World War have been helping former servicemen and women with PTSD. Today we provide specialist treatment to veterans from every service and conflict, focusing on those with complex mental health issues related to their military service.

This symposium will present recent innovations in the delivery of Combat Stress's services for veterans who present with PTSD and C-PTSD, including a service developed in partnership with OpCOURAGE, South Central England.

An introduction will comprise the three-phase treatment model that Combat Stress offers for PTSD and C-PTSD; an interdisciplinary service for veterans and families.

Learning objectives are to understand: the feasibility of intensive PTSD and C-PTSD treatment; the feasibility of online group stabilisation interventions; the acceptability and impact of veteran led Peer Support; the value of family engagement to improve quality of care

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

201: Clinical assessment of ICD-11 PTSD and complex PTSD using the international trauma interview (ITI)

Rahel Bachem 2, Andreas Maercker 2, Kai Köhler 3, Gerd Willmund 3, Martin Bohus 4, Stefanie Koglin 5, Stefan Roepke 5, Nikola Schoofs 21, Kathlen Priebe 21, Felix Wülfing 21, Christian Schmahl 4, Manuel P Stadtmann 6, Heinrich Rau 3, Mareike Augsburger 2,7, Sabina Palic 8, Lene Bager 8,9, Stine Bjerrum Moeller 10,11, Kirstine Bruun Larsen 12, Søren Bothe 8, Sofie Folke 13, Dorthe Futtrup 12, Marie Høgh Thøgersen 8, Maria Lund Kristensen 14, Katrine Møller Larsen 15, Bo Søndergaard Jensen 16, Louise Tækker 15, Linda Nordin 8,17, Erik Vindbjerg 18, Odeta Gelezelyte 1, Neil P Roberts 19,20, Jonathan I Bisson 19, Monika Kvedaraite 1, Evaldas Kazlauskas 1

Abstract

Track: Assessment & Diagnosis

The 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) includes a new diagnosis of complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) which encompasses symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and disturbances in self-organization (DSO). As CPTSD is a new diagnostic category, there is a significant lack of valid tools for the clinical assessment of CPTSD symptoms. A semi-structured International Trauma Interview (ITI) is a promising novel tool for the thorough clinical assessment of a new diagnostic category of complex PTSD that could be used in everyday clinical practice and research. Studies in different countries and samples are highly needed for the investigation of the validity of the ITI. In this symposium, an overview of the development of the ITI, as well as results from validation studies in different countries and samples will be presented. We will also discuss some challenges associated with administering the ITI interview in various settings.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

223: Predicting who will respond to our best treatments

Dharani Key 1, Nadine Garland 1, Jenny Tran 1, Meaghan O’Donnell 4, Richard Bryant 1, Pim Cuijpers 3, Jennifer Kurath 2, Aemal Akhtar 5, Naser Morina 2, William Martins Vilella 2, Kadir Turgut 2, Laura Doser 2, Marit Sijbrandij 3, Anne M De Graaff 3, Jos Twisk 3, Mariam Elsawy 3, Katie Dawson 1, Suzanna Azevedo 1, Srishti Srishti Yadav 1, Jasmine Choi-Christou 1, Isaac Galatzer-Levy 6

Abstract

Track: Intervention Research & Clinical Studies

This symposium addresses predictors of response to evidence-based treatments. The first study will comprise a systematic review and meta-analysis of trauma-focused psychotherapy trials that include predictive factors of outcomes, and then quantifies the factors that are most predictive. The second study refines this approach by examining in a meta-analysis the factors that predict treatment response in trials that focused on refugees with PTSD. The third study uses a independent participant data meta-analysis of studies that used transdiagnostic interventions to address common mental disorders in refugees. The fourth study adopts a novel experimental approach and uses novel computer vision technology to measure facial, acoustic, and speech parameters derived from responses made prior to treatment to predict who will respond to a transdiagnostic intervention for people experiencing distress secondary to the pandemic. These studies will provide novel insights into how clinicians need to consider tailoring available treatments for different patients.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

227: Correlates, patterns, and trajectories of prolonged grief disorder

Justina Pociunaite 2, Iris van Dijk 4, Lyanne Reitsma 4, Erik Edwin Leonard Nordström 5, Paul A Boelen 4,6, Lonneke I M Lenferink 4,7,8, Hannah Comtesse 1, Anna Vogel 1, Cedric Sachser 2, Bettina K Döring 3, Rita Rosner 1, Anna-Maria Rummel 1, Nadine Stammel 9, Freya Specht 10, Max Vöhringer 10, Christine Knaevelsrud 9, Birgit Wagner 11, Maria Böttche 9,10, Geert E Smid 4,12, Suzan Soydas 4,6, Barbara Goodfellow 13, Rachel Wilson 13

Abstract

Track: Assessment & Diagnosis

Prolonged grief disorder (PGD) is a new diagnosis. To be able to identify risk groups and improve treatments, more thorough investigations of the course and correlates of PGD symptoms are needed. The first study in this symposium (Pociunaite) is focused on the course of PGD symptoms in a cross-national sample. Unnatural losses increased the risk of a high stable PGD trajectory. The second presentation (Comtesse) shows that, after accounting for loss-related factors, the experience of childhood abuse was associated with PGD symptoms in adulthood in a population-based German sample. The third presentation focuses on PGD symptoms in a treatment-seeking sample of Arabic-speaking persons (Stammel). In addition to loss-related factors, impairment and perceived social support were related to PGD symptoms. The final study (Smid) examines patterns of PGD and comorbid symptoms and the effectiveness of a short grief-focused outreach program for persons bereaved by homicide in the United Kingdom.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

240: Combining exercise with trauma-focused treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder: Effects and timing

Muriel Hagenaars 1,2, A Krypotos 1, IM Engelhard 1,3, MA Van der Hout 1, SA Sanches 6, Eline Voorendonk 4,5, M Mojet 1, A De Jongh 5,7,8,9,10, Agnes van Minnen 4,5, MS Tollenaar 11, EA Hoogendoorn 12, Rick de Haart 13,14, JK Daniels 13, DC Cath 14,15, MJJ Lommen 13

Abstract

Track: Intervention Research & Clinical Studies

Exercise is helpful to reduce psychiatric symptoms, including PTSD symptoms. Less is known however, about the effect of exercise during trauma-focused treatments for PTSD. This symposium addresses the question whether exercise has an added value on the effect of trauma-focused treatment, and discusses the timing of exercise in a trauma-focused trajectory; before, after or during a treatment session?

First, findings from an experimental study indicate that immobility (i.e., freeze; no movement) impedes extinction learning, and suggests using exercise after a treatment session. Findings from a clinical study showed more reduction of trauma-related distress and vividness in PTSD patients who performed exercise after versus before an exposure session. Results from a clinical randomized controlled trial did not find beneficial effects of exercise in addition to a trauma-focused treatment program. Lastly, a new clinical study design will be presented investigating the effect of movement during a Virtual Reality exposure treatment session.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

248: The influence of immigration and health care policies on refugee mental health

Philippa Specker 2, Belinda Liddell 2, Meaghan O’Donnell 3, Richard Bryant 2, Vicki Mau 4, Tadgh McMahon 5, Yulisha Byrow 2, Angela Nickerson 2, Joel Hoffman 2, Natalie Mastrogiovanni 2, Lars Dumke 1, Frank Neuner 1, Sarah Wilker 1, Anna Kotterba 1

Abstract

Track: Refugee or war & conflict related traumatic stress

Due to the repeated experience of traumatic events before migration, refugees represent a particular vulnerable group for the development of chronic mental health conditions, with potential life-long consequences on the integration process into the new environment. This vulnerability is aggravated by stressors occurring during and after migration. Furthermore, the opportunity to adequately respond to the mental health needs of traumatized refugees, and to transform the mental health systems to become inclusive for individuals with diverse cultural background and language has been missed by many host countries.

This symposium will present evidence regarding the impact of immigration policies and visa insecurity on refugee mental health. Further, data showing how structural barriers and psychotherapists’ attitudes contribute to a discrimination of refugees in the general health care system will be presented. Implications for transformations of the health care system to respond more adequately to the mental health needs of refugees will be discussed.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

258: Global research on the impact of childhood trauma across domains and the lifespan

Miranda Olff 1,2, Ulrich Schnyder 3, Monique Pfaltz 4, Shilat Haim-Nachum 5, Georgina Spies 6,7,8, Mari R Sopp 9, Misari Oe 10,11, Dany Laure Wadji 12,13, Eleonora Bartoli 14, Chantal Martin-Soelch 12, Monique C Pfaltz 4, Rachel Langevin 15, Demi Havermans 16,17, Sjacko Sobczak 16,18

Abstract

Track: Child & Adolescent Trauma

The Global Collaboration on Traumatic Stress (GC-TS) consists of researchers and clinicians from around the world collaborating on topics of global importance. At the start it was decided that one of these topics to be addressed would be that of the impact of childhood maltreatment. In this symposium we start with a report on what the GC-TS has been achieving with regard to this topic and how to advance child trauma research around the world. The second paper will address how experiencing childhood maltreatment is related to the interpersonal distance individuals feel comfortable with around the world. The third paper focuses on global childhood maltreatment experiences and social norm perceptions of child maltreatment and what the effects are in adulthood. Finally, the impact of (childhood) trauma in older adults in a large global sample will be presented as well as trauma-related symptom presentation in old age.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

260: Biological predictors and markers of psychotherapy outcome in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Evidence from genetic, epigenetic, gene expression, and neuroimaging research

Dharani Keyan 2, Richard Bryant 2, Sarah Wilker 1,5, Vanja Vukojevic 6,7, Anna Schneider 5, Anett Pfeiffer 8, Stefan Inerle 9, Markus Pauly 9,10, Thomas Elbert 11, Andreas Papassotiropoulos 6,7, Dominique De Quervain 6,7, Iris-Tatjana Kolassa 5, Robert Kumsta 3,4, Elisabeth Hummel 3, Johannes CS Zang 3, Svenja Müller 3, Dirk Moser 3, Stephan Herpertz 12, Henrik Kessler 13, Richard Bryant 2, Kim Felmingham 14, Gin S Malhi 15, Thomas H Williamson 2, Leanne M Williams 16, Mayuresh S Korgaonkar 17

Abstract

Track: Public Health, Biological &/or Medical

While knowledge regarding the biological mechanisms involved in the development of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is constantly growing, so far, little research has focused on the role of biological processes involved in the treatment of PTSD by means of evidence-based psychotherapy. This knowledge could have important clinical implications, since there is a large variability in PTSD treatment response, and approximately 30% of trauma survivors do not benefit from evidence-based psychotherapy for PTSD.

Here, we present data regarding genetic predictors of psychotherapy outcome, as well as epigenetic and gene expression patterns related to treatment response. Further, changes in neural responses that are associated with therapeutic change will be presented. The presented data shed light on potential biological mechanisms involved in psychotherapy for PTSD and might inform enhancement of psychotherapeutic treatments as well as personalized medicine.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

291: Impact of morally stressful situations on healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic - an international perspective

Kristina Bondjers 1, Kristin Alve Glad 1, Dan Atar 3,4, Solveig K Reitan 5,6,7, Leiv-Arne Rosseland 7,8, John-Anker Zwarts 8,2, Hilde Wøien 9, Synne Ø Stensland 1,2, Grete Dyb 1,8, Martina Gustavsson 10, Niklas Juth 11, Johan von Schreeb 10, Filip Arnberg 12, Victoria Williamsson 13,14, Danielle Lamb 15, Matthew Hotopf 16,17, Rosalind Raine 15, Sharon Stevelink 13,16, Simon Wessely 16, Mary Docherty 16, Ira Madan 18, Dominic Murphy 13,19, Neil Greenberg 13, Ariela Rosenblum 20, Talya Greene 21

Abstract

Track: Pandemic related Traumatic Stress

During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare workers (HCWs) have been faced with unprecedented demands and diminished resources, giving rise to ethically challenging situations and potentially morally injurious events (PMIE). This international collaboration presents on pandemic-related PMIEs and associated distress among HCW across four large and unique samples. MSc Gustavsson will report on the prevalence and causes of moral stressors, and available support among 16, 044 Swedish HCWs. Dr Bondjers will present a mixed-methods study, exploring situations perceived as morally challenging among 978 Norwegian HCWs. Dr Williamson will share findings from a study of 12965 UK National Health Service HCWs, examining the prevalence of PMIEs, mental ill health and social and occupational risk factors. MSc Rosenblum will report on exposure to and predictors of PMIEs among 711 allied health professionals and nurses in Israel. Together, presentations will elucidate on ways to mediate both exposure to PMIE and potential impact on mental health.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

306: Mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic – Longitudinal results across Europe from the ESTSS COVID-19 pan-European ADJUST Study Part I

Annett Lotzin 1,2, Trudy Mooren 15,20, Piotr Grajewski 9, Dean Ajduković 4, Acquarini Elena Acquarini 3, Marina Ajduković 22, Xenia Anastassiou-Hadjicharalambous 5, Vittoria Ardino 3, Filip Arnberg 6,18, Ines Rezo Bagarić 22, Helena Bakić 4, Maria Böttche 7, Maria Bragesjö 8, Małgorzata Dragan 9, Margarida Figueiredo-Braga 10,16, Tanja Frančišković 17, Odeta Gelezelyte 11, Simon Groen 19, Jana Darejan Javakhishvili 12, Evaldas Kazlauskas 11, Jana Kiralj 4, Lonneke Lenferink 13, Chrysanthi Lioupi 5, Brigitte Lueger-Schuster 14, Joanne Mouthaan 19, Lyanne Reitsma 15, Luisa Sales 16, Ingo Schäfer 1, Katharina Stahlmann 1, Aleksandra Stevanović 17, Szymon Szumiał 9, Lela Tsiskarishvili 12, Marie Jose van Hoof 21, Irina Zrnic Novakovic 14

Abstract

Track: Pandemic related Traumatic Stress

The European Society for Traumatic Studies (ESTSS) launched a longitudinal European study on the mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic (https://estss.org/adjust). In this symposium, longitudinal findings from different countries will be presented. The first presentation (Lotzin) will provide insights into associations between pandemic-related stressors and risk factors for PTSD across eleven countries. The second (Mooren), third (Grajewski) and fourth (Ajduković) talks will convey findings on mental health trajectories in the Dutch, Polish, and Croatian populations, respectively. The fifth presentation (Arnberg) will present Swedish data that indicate potential mental-health recovery between pandemic waves, while the sixth presentation (Figueiredo-Braga) will discuss findings on the associations between coping and symptoms of adjustment disorder in the Portuguese population. The last presentation (Zrnić Novaković) will report qualitative data on pandemic-related experiences in five European countries. The implications of the findings for research and clinical practice for the current and future pandemics will be discussed.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

308: Mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic – Longitudinal results across Europe from the ESTSS COVID-19 pan-European ADJUST Study Part II

Filip K Arnbe 1,2, Irina Zrnić Novaković 10, Margarida Figueiredo-Braga 7,8, Dean Ajduković 11, Xenia Anastassiou-Hadjicharalambous 12, Helena Bakić 11, Kristina Bondjers 1,6, Camila Borges 8, Maria Bragesjö 4, Rakel Eklund 1,3, Ida Hensler 1, Jana Darejan Javakhishvili 13, Kerstin Bergh Johannesson 1, Chrysanthi Lioupi 12, Brigitte Lueger-Schuster 10, Luisa Sales 8,9, Josefin Sveen 1,3,5, Lela Tsiskarishvili 14, Annett Lotzin 15,16

Abstract

Track: Pandemic related Traumatic Stress

The European Society for Traumatic Studies (ESTSS) launched a longitudinal European study on the mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic (https://estss.org/adjust). In this symposium, longitudinal findings from different countries will be presented. The first presentation (Lotzin) will provide insights into associations between pandemic-related stressors and risk factors for PTSD across eleven countries. The second (Mooren), third (Grajewski) and fourth (Ajduković) talks will convey findings on mental health trajectories in the Dutch, Polish, and Croatian population, respectively. The fifth presentation (Arnberg) will present Swedish data that indicate potential mental-health recovery between pandemic waves, while the sixth presentation (Figueiredo-Braga) will discuss findings on the associations between coping and symptoms of adjustment disorder in the Portuguese population. The last presentation (Zrnić Novaković) will report qualitative data on pandemic-related experiences in five European countries. The implications of the findings for research and clinical practice for the current and future pandemics will be discussed.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

310: Mental health of war-affected and forcibly displaced individuals and their families – Associations of risk factors and symptomatology

Hawkar Ibrahim 1, Benjamin Iffland 1, Sina Neldner 1, Razaw Noori 2, Harem Nareeman Mahmood 1, Jasmin Wittmann 1, Claudia Catani 1, Frank Neuner 1

Abstract

Track: Refugee or war & conflict related traumatic stress

While the dose-effect association between the number of experienced war traumatic events and negative mental ill-health outcomes is well-documented within current psychotraumatology literature, there is a dearth of scientific research on the impacts of non-war and life adversity events (such as family-childhood trauma and intimate partner violence, and resources loss) on the mental health of war-affected populations. This symposium will present four empirical data on the contribution of family, childhood violence, and loss of resources to the mental health of displacement families and genocide survivors in the Middle East.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

366: Learning from previously deployed Danish soldiers: Treatment-seeking behavior, ICD-11 PTSD and complex PTSD, and outcome of personalized treatment

Karen-Inge Karsto 1,3, Erik Vindbjerg 5, Anni B S Nielsen 1,4, Søren B Andersen 1, Sofie Folke 1,2, Thanos Karatzias 6, Katrine Friis 2, Ulrik Thomsen 2, Nikolai Roitmann 2, Christian D G Stoltenberg 1,9, Mia S Vedtofte 1, Volkert Siersma 4, Kaj S Christensen 8, Merete Osler 7,9

Abstract

Track: Military & Emergency Services & their families

Research evidence is largely supportive of the distinction of ICD-11 PTSD and complex PTSD (CPTSD) in various trauma-exposed samples. However, few studies have been conducted in military samples. In this symposium, speakers will present the latest research on treatment-seeking behavior, ICD-11 PTSD and CPTSD and outcome of personalized treatment in previously deployed Danish Soldiers and veterans. Specifically, Dr Karen-Inge Karstoft will present results from three studies examining the factor structure and latent profiles of PTSD and CPTSD in three samples (N = 599; N = 1 541; N = 294). Dr Anni B. S. Nielsen will present data on risk factors and comorbidities of C/PTSD in 599 treatment-seeking Danish veterans. Dr Sofie Folke will present results of a case-series study investigating a new personalized treatment for veterans with CPTSD (N = 14). Lastly, Christian D.G. Stoltenberg will present results of a study that compared differences in mental healthcare utilisation between Danish military personnel (N = 10,971) and the general population (N = 253,714).

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

387: Personalizing PTSD treatment: Patient and provider factors in treatment choice and outcomes

Rachel Hiller 6, Philip Held 5, Michelle Bedard-Gilligan 2, Debra Kaysen 1, Dale L Smith 5, Morgan Johnson 2, Brittany Blanchard 2, Charles Engel 2, Stephanie Hauge 2, Joseph Cerimele 2, Molly Joseph 2, John Fortney 2, Norah Feeny 3, Elsa Mattson 3, Sarah Rutter 3, Lori Zoellner 4

Abstract

Track: Intervention Research & Clinical Studies

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is prevalent and associated with high individual and societal costs. There are effective trauma-focused therapies, as well as pharmacological treatments for PTSD. Despite these advances, individuals often do not access treatment. For those who do, they may not receive an effective dose of treatment, and even among those who access care, they do not always respond to treatment. Moreover, providers are not always consistent in offering evidence-based PTSD treatments to their clients. All of these factors are barriers to addressing the global burden of disease associated with PTSD and may be addressed by personalized medicine approaches, which individualizes care to each client. This symposium presents findings across a wide variety of settings examining patient and provider factors associated with preference for PTSD treatment modalities, and patient factors associated with response to adjunctive treatments. Implications for the field of personalized medicine and PTSD will be discussed.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

392: Mental health impacts of COVID-19 on healthcare providers and public safety personnel

Kimberly Ritchie 1,5, Margaret McKinnon 1,3,4, Andrea Brown 1, Suzette Brémault-Phillips 7,8, Lorraine Smith-MacDonald 7,8, Alexandra Heber 1,2,6

Abstract

Track: Pandemic related Traumatic Stress

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented and often devastating circumstances for healthcare providers (HCP) and Public Safety Personnel (PSP), which circumstances have impacted their mental health and wellbeing. In this symposium, we will discuss the impacts that the pandemic has had on experiences of moral injury as well as depression, anxiety, and stress for both HCP and PSP in Canada. We will also present on an evidence-informed online Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based group therapy addressing moral injury in healthcare providers. Finally, we will present on a knowledge exchange hub funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada to curate and mobilize information from nine projects that are testing and delivering interventions to address the needs of HCP and PSP.

Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2023 Jun 14;14(Suppl 1):2197745.

402: General and mental health outcomes and healthcare utilization in refugees: Predictors and implications for policy

Cengiz Kilic 1, Reshed Abohalaka 1, Özlem Seyda Ulug 2, Kathy Magruder 3

Abstract

Track: Refugee or war & conflict related traumatic stress

The Syrian conflict led to one of the largest refugee crises in the world. Turkey hosts nearly 4 million Syrian refugees since 2011. Refugees are at double risk for mental disorders, since they have been exposed to war traumas, and since they have to survive in countries without their social and economic network. Plus, they face additional traumas, or discrimination. We are presenting the results of a large-scale epidemiological study on a random representative sample of all Syrian refugees in Turkey. Since the sample is representative, we will be able to present reliable estimates of true prevalence of mental disorders. We will also examine the differences in the pattern of use of general health versus mental health services. Finally, we will discuss the policy implications of our findings and generalizability of our findings to other refugee crises in other parts of the world.

Articles from European Journal of Psychotraumatology are provided here courtesy of Taylor & Francis

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