[Post-traumatic stress disorder treatments].

Abstract

A traumatic event (assault, traffic accident, bomb attack or war, disasters.) is often followed by a reaction of fear and anxiety which can evolve to a posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Its severity and associated handicap justify treatment as early as possible. We present the various PTSD treatments and discuss their respective efficiency and limitations. Most of available treatments (cognitive and behavioral therapies, antidepressants.) are efficient on PTSD and co-morbid disorders. However, the efficiency of some therapies (eye movement desensitization) on the treatment of PTSD are controversial. Studies are necessary to evaluate various treatment strategies, optimal duration of antidepressant treatment and pediatric therapies.