This authoritative volume describes the state of the science of early intervention for trauma and traumatic loss across the lifespan and in a variety of contexts. While few would dispute the importance of helping people cope with severe life stressors, important questions remain about how to identify those at risk for chronic problems and which interventions actually facilitate recovery over time. Following a review of current knowledge on the predictors and course of acute stress disorder, PTSD, and traumatic grief, the volume presents a range of early intervention models designed for very young children, older children, and adults. Authors examine the empirical literature and recommend evidence-based clinical strategies whenever possible, while delineating an extensive agenda for future research. Also covered are the lessons learned from early intervention with specific populations: 9/11 survivors, combat veterans, emergency services personnel, survivors of sexual violence, and others.
1. Introduction, Litz
I. Predictors and Course of Acute Stress Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Traumatic Grief
2. Acute Stress Disorder: Course, Epidemiology, Assessment, and Treatment, Bryant
3. Risk and Resilience Factors in the Etiology of Chronic Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, D. W. King, Vogt and L. A. King
4. Conceptual and Definitional Issues in Complicated Grief, Gray, Prigerson, and Litz
II. Empirical Research on Early Interventions for Trauma and Traumatic Loss
5. Early Intervention for Trauma in Adults: A Framework for First Aid and Secondary Prevention, Litz and Gray
6. Early Intervention with Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers, Van Horn and Lieberman
7. Early Mental Health Interventions for Trauma and Traumatic Loss in Children and Adolescents, Cohen
8. Early Mental Health Interventions for Traumatic Loss in Adults, Raphael and Wooding
9. Methodological and Ethical Issues in Early Intervention Research, Gray, Litz, and Olson
III. Special Topics
10. The Professional Response to the Aftermath of September 11, 2001, in New York City: Lessons Learned from Treating Victims of the World Trade Center Attacks, Neria, Suh, and Marshall
11. Sexual Trauma: Impact and Recovery, Rauch and Foa
12. When the Helpers Need Help: Early Intervention for Emergency and Relief Services Personnel, Eriksson, Foy, and Larson
13. Evaluating and Treating Injured Trauma Survivors in Trauma Care Systems, Zatzick and Wagner
14. Early Intervention for Psychological Consequences of Personal Injury Motor Vehicle Accidents, Blanchard, Hickling, Kuhn, and Broderick
15. The Challenge of Providing Mental Health Prevention and Early Intervention in the U.S. Military, Castro, Engel, and Adler
16. Closing Remarks, Litz
Biography
In this post-9/11 age, unpredictable, traumatic life events lead to the risk of chronic mental health problems around the world. Dr. Brett Litz has cleverly brought together an outstanding team of trauma experts to explore the efficacy of early intervention strategies in trauma cases. This book stresses the need for timely preparation to meet the challenges of future traumatic events.--Muriel Prince Warren, DSW, ACSW-
Addressing an urgent public health problem, Litz has assembled an outstanding group of seasoned clinicians and investigators to help us understand the process and goals of early intervention following trauma, terrorism, and mass disasters. This book establishes the roadmap for clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and government officials involved in planning mental health responses for the coming decade. Focusing on evidence-based principles, the volume outlines a theoretical model, a sensible strategy for implementation of interventions, and a method to measure their impact. The work of these leaders will shape the nature and scope of future models of mental healthcare for those who survive tragic events.--Terence M. Keane, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, and National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System
This book is a milestone because there is so little solid empirical data about evidence-based early interventions for survivors of mass casualties and other traumas. It clarifies what little is known, how much we need to learn, and what we need to do to get there. It should be mandatory reading for all who seek to improve early intervention services for acutely traumatized survivors, including emergency personnel, professional care providers, policymakers, advocacy groups, students, and trainees.--Matthew J. Friedman, MD, PhD, National Center for PTSD, VA Medical Center, White River Junction, VT
A comprehensive book on a topic of critical concern; especially timely given the increase in disasters in the United States and internationally. Would be valuable to service providers from diverse disciplines.--Fariyal Ross-Sheriff, PhD, School of Social Work, Howard UniversityRigorous and timely....Litz and his contributors provide a great service to clinicians, researchers, and policy-makers alike.--Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Book Reviews, 10/31/2003ƒƒThis book is nicely written and does not waste words. It flows smoothly and can be read straight through or as freestanding chapters....Litz did a praiseworthy job of stitching together the various contributions into a coherent whole that is well worth the read. This book fills an important niche.--PsycCRITIQUES, 10/31/2003
