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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Patricia A. Shane, PhD, MPH, Public Health Institute, 2168 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 300, Berkeley, CA 94704, (510)549-3430, pshane@phi.org
This paper presents findings on the correlates and consequences of post-traumatic stress that are based upon data collected in a multi-site, prospective, longitudinal study of adolescents (ages 13-19) who are in residential treatment for substance abuse problems. Findings explore lifetime occurrence of serious or life-threatening traumatic events and the later development of PTSD symptoms, including nightmares, feelings of re-occurrence, emotional numbing, and/or physiological arousal. Female/male differences in relation to onset and acuity of substance abuse behaviors as well as other co-morbid psychological problems are discussed. Important differences between the sexes among those reporting serious lifetime trauma are presented. A discussion frames the long-term health implications for young women who report traumatic adverse childhood events. There is growing evidence that trauma contributes to life-long health and mental health problems. This research builds on those findings. Patterns of symptom persistence, that are particularly prevalent among females, are examined. Frequency of traumatic experiences and age at onset are considered in relation to the number of post-traumatic stress symptoms reported and the duration of these symptoms. Relationships between the number of times traumatic event(s) occurred and number of symptoms or duration of symptoms are considered.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Health Risks
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.