Posttraumatic stress disorder after terrorist attacks: A review

Based on the studies reviewed here, the prevalence of PTSD after TA worldwide is estimated to be approximately 28%. Citizens appear to have a considerably higher prevalence rate than security forces. Many inconsistencies exist in relation to the risk factors of PTSD after TA. Their further identification may help direct scarce mental-health personnel to TA survivors in greatest need of preventive therapy. Standardized assessments before and after treatment need to be incorporated to assess the effects of interventions, and use of evidence-based psychotherapies is strongly recommended. Implementation of such steps can reduce past errors that may take place despite the best intentions of mental health professionals (e.g., Tucker et al., 2000) and may provide TA survivors more effective therapy.