PTSD Coach

The Department of Veterans Affairs recently released [PTSD Coach] for iPhone. The application is designed for individuals suffering from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and those interested in learning about it. It eloquently provides information about PTSD, contains a self assessment tool, as well as information about treatment.

The learning tool includes a definition and causes of PTSD, prevalence, risk factors and treatment modalities. The assessment tool contains 17 questions that describes common symptoms and contains a rating program. The assessment can be repeated, and the severity of symptoms can be plotted on a graph to show the evolution of distress. The management tool asks, "What's Wrong" (reminded of trauma, avoiding triggers, disconnected from people or reality, sad & hopeless, worried & anxious, angry, unable to sleep). For each problem area, the person is asked to rate the level of distress using a rating scale and provides tools such as progressive muscle relaxation, tips to help falling asleep, positive imagery, and reminders to distract oneself. Finally, the find support tools offers phone numbers and links to various organisation. More information can be obtained on their [website].

Sylvain Roy, Ph.D.
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