The effectiveness of Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories for Complex PTSD – A pilot quasi-experimental study from a wellness centre in India

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), based on ICD-11 guidelines, is differentiated from PTSD by several unique characteristics. Prolonged or frequent exposure to an event or series of events of extremely threatening or horrific nature increases the risk for CPTSD in adults. For PTSD, Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM) has emerged as an effective intervention. There are limited studies on how to address CPTSD. Hence, RTM's effectiveness for CPTSD has not yet been established. In India, there are very few studies on PTSD (focusing mainly on natural disasters and violence), none on CPTSD and none on the effectiveness of RTM. Unfortunately, India, with >400 million young individuals and with high prevalence and limited identification of mental health issues, has a major gap in this area. This quasi-experimental pilot study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the RTM intervention for individuals with CPTSD at a wellness centre in India.

The participants (>18 years, n = 107) who reached out to a wellness center for help were assessed by two trained therapists (including a psychologist) based on the presenting problems for CPTSD using the International Trauma Questionnaire. Additional assessments included Major Depression Inventory and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7. Based on the index-trauma framework, RTM intervention was delivered. Post-measurements were done (a) after one month or at least after five sessions and (b) after three months.

After one month (or five sessions), the CPTSD status changed to “none” (no diagnosis) for 80 and “PTSD” for 2 individuals. The results were sustained post-three months (n = 30). The paired t-test confirmed the overall reduction in CPTSD score after one month compared to baseline and even after three months compared to after one month, based on statistical significance (p < .01). The findings confirmed the effectiveness of RTM intervention for individuals with CPTSD. The study's limitations (quasi-experimental design, urban, English-speaking Indians) could be addressed in future work.