Professor Alain Brunet, director of the National PTSD Research Centre at the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Thompson Institute, has provided information regarding post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and when to consider seeking professional diagnosis.
Understanding PTSD Symptoms
Normal stress reactions following a traumatic event can include nightmares, intrusive thoughts, startling easily, difficulty concentrating, emotional withdrawal, avoidance, hypervigilance, and flashbacks. These responses are common after trauma.
When to Seek Diagnosis
The duration of these symptoms is a key indicator. If symptoms persist for several weeks, individuals are advised to consider seeking expert support. A free pre-diagnostic screening tool is available to help individuals assess their likelihood of having PTSD before consulting a qualified health professional, such as a general practitioner, for a formal diagnosis.
Rising PTSD Diagnoses in Australia
PTSD diagnoses are reported to be increasing in Australia. This trend is linked to events such as floods, bushfires, other climate change-related weather phenomena, and specific incidents.
Reconsolidation Therapy
Professor Brunet has developed Reconsolidation Therapy, a new treatment for PTSD. This therapy is presented as potentially effective in as few as six sessions. A study on this treatment indicated that approximately 70% to 84% of participants reported meaningful symptom improvement after six 25-minute therapy sessions. The therapy has been implemented for clinicians addressing war-related trauma in Ukraine.
National PTSD Research Centre
The National PTSD Research Centre at UniSC’s Thompson Institute conducts research, clinical trials, and community outreach. The center provides resources for individuals experiencing trauma and is currently conducting clinical trials for Reconsolidation Therapy.