The NICE Guidelines for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder recommend that: 

• PTSD can develop in people of any age following a stressful event or situation of an exceptionally threatening or catastrophic nature

• Effective treatment can only take place if the disorder is recognised

• Symptoms often develop immediately after the traumatic event but the onset of symptoms may be delayed in some people

• PTSD is treatable even when problems present many years after the event

• Drugs should not be offered as routine first-line treatment for adult PTSD sufferers

• When symptoms are present 8-12 sessions of trauma-focussed CBT should be offered, regardless of the time elapsed since the trauma

• It should be ensured that psychological treatment is regular and continuous (at least once a week) and is delivered by the same person

• Consideration should be given to extending trauma-focussed psychological treatment beyond 12 sessions:

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  • After multiple traumatic events
  • After traumatic bereavement
  • Where chronic disability results from the trauma
  • When significant co-morbid disorders or social problems are present

• Non-trauma-focussed interventions such as relaxation or non-directive therapy should not be routinely offered

• Children and young people should be offered trauma-focussed CBT adapted as needed to suit their age, circumstances and level of development

• Families should be involved in the treatment of children and young people where appropriate

• PTSD sufferers should be given information about effective treatment and their preferences taken into account.

• The impact of the traumatic event on all family members should be assessed and appropriate support provided

  For more details please go to : www.nice.org.uk