Transient disorder that develops in response to exceptional physical and/or mental stress, typically subsiding within hours or days; should last no more than one month

Aetiology

• Can be seen in individuals with no history of mental health problems (but history of a psychiatric disorder does increase risk)
• Other risk factors include female gender, severity of trauma, and specific traumas such as rape and physical injury

Clinical features

• Recurrent distressing memories and/or dreams of the traumatic event
• ‘Flashbacks’ of the event
• Having a sense of being detached from self and emotions
• Avoidance of thoughts, memories and feelings about the traumatic event
• Avoidance of external reminders of the event e.g. people and places
• Sleep problems
• Irritability

Investigations

• ICD-11 diagnosis

Management

• Ensure patient safety - patient is safe after the event and knows where to seek help in case of an emergency
• Practical support - e.g. help with the police report of the incident, work leave of absence
• Psychotherapy - trauma-focused CBT is the treatment of choice