Researchers call for people with PTSD to help with study
AS WE approach Remembrance Day, the National Centre for Mental Health (NCMH) is calling for military veterans with experience of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to volunteer to take part in research.
PTSD is a condition that can occur after a serious traumatic event, which servicemen and women may experience in a conflict zone.
However, PTSD can also occur after traumatic events experienced by any of us – including physical or sexual assault, being involved in a serious car accident or traumatic childbirth.
Estimates suggest around 6.9% of military veterans who serve in combat roles develop PTSD, compared to the 5-10% of civilians who develop PTSD after experiencing a traumatic event.
Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks and nightmares, hypervigilance and vivid memories.
In many cases, people experiencing PTSD will also show symptoms of depression and anxiety, and some may also have problems with drugs or alcohol.
Professor Ian Jones, director of NCMH said: “PTSD is a complex condition and we are trying to better understand why some people experience PTSD after a traumatic event while others do not. As part of that, we’re investigating the role of genetics and biology as well as exploring psychological and environmental factors that may be involved.
“We believe that a better understanding of PTSD will help us to develop better treatments and improve support available to those affected. To do this, we need as many people as possible to volunteer their time to take part in our study.”
Taking part in the research involves an interview with a researcher, which can take place in your own home, and providing a blood or saliva sample.
If you are interested in learning more about this research, or would like to take part, visit www.ncmh.info/ptsd-research or phone 029 2068 8401.