Early Intervention for Trauma and Traumatic Loss [Hardcover]

Brett T. Litz PhD (Editor)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 1572309539 | ISBN-13: 978-1572309531 | Publication Date: October 29, 2003 | Edition: 1

This authoritative volume describes the state of the science of early intervention for trauma and traumatic loss across the lifespan and in a variety of contexts. While few would dispute the importance of helping people cope with severe life stressors, important questions remain about how to identify those at risk for chronic problems and which interventions actually facilitate recovery over time. Following a review of current knowledge on the predictors and course of acute stress disorder, PTSD, and traumatic grief, the volume presents a range of early intervention models designed for very young children, older children, and adults. Authors examine the empirical literature and recommend evidence-based clinical strategies whenever possible, while delineating an extensive agenda for future research. Also covered are the lessons learned from early intervention with specific populations: 9/11 survivors, combat veterans, emergency services personnel, survivors of sexual violence, and others.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"In this post-9/11 age, unpredictable, traumatic life events lead to the risk of chronic mental health problems around the world. Dr. Brett Litz has cleverly brought together an outstanding team of trauma experts to explore the efficacy of early intervention strategies in trauma cases. This book stresses the need for timely preparation to meet the challenges of future traumatic events."--Muriel Prince Warren, DSW, ACSW

"Addressing an urgent public health problem, Litz has assembled an outstanding group of seasoned clinicians and investigators to help us understand the process and goals of early intervention following trauma, terrorism, and mass disasters. This book establishes the roadmap for clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and government officials involved in planning mental health responses for the coming decade. Focusing on evidence-based principles, the volume outlines a theoretical model, a sensible strategy for implementation of interventions, and a method to measure their impact. The work of these leaders will shape the nature and scope of future models of mental healthcare for those who survive tragic events."--Terence M. Keane, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, and National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System

"This book is a milestone because there is so little solid empirical data about evidence-based early interventions for survivors of mass casualties and other traumas. It clarifies what little is known, how much we need to learn, and what we need to do to get there. It should be mandatory reading for all who seek to improve early intervention services for acutely traumatized survivors, including emergency personnel, professional care providers, policymakers, advocacy groups, students, and trainees."--Matthew J. Friedman, MD, PhD, National Center for PTSD, VA Medical Center, White River Junction, VT

"A comprehensive book on a topic of critical concern; especially timely given the increase in disasters in the United States and internationally. Would be valuable to service providers from diverse disciplines."--Fariyal Ross-Sheriff, PhD, School of Social Work, Howard University

About the Author

Brett T. Litz, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine and the Department of Psychology at Boston University. He is also Associate Director of the Behavioral Sciences Division of the National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder at the Boston Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Dr. Litz is Principal Investigator on several research studies funded by the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Defense to explore the efficacy of early intervention strategies in trauma, and he is currently studying adaptation to traumatic loss as a result of 9-11. In addition to conducting research on early intervention for trauma, Dr. Litz studies the mental health adaptation of U.S. military personnel across the lifespan, the assessment and treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, and emotional numbing in trauma.

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 325 pages
• Publisher: The Guilford Press; 1 edition (October 29, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1572309539
• ISBN-13: 978-1572309531
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.3 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,277,915 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)