Early psychosocial interventions after disasters, terrorism and other shocking events: is there a gap between norms and practice in Europe?

Abstract

BackgroundInternationally, several initiatives exist to describe standards for post-disaster psychosocial care.ObjectiveThis study explored the level of consensus of experts within Europe on a set of recommendations on early psychosocial intervention after shocking events (Dutch guidelines), and to what degree these standards are implemented into mental health care practice.MethodsTwo hundred and six (mental) health care professionals filled out a questionnaire to assess the extent to which they consider the guidelines’ scope and recommendations relevant and part of the regular practice in their own country. Forty-five European experts from 24 EU countries discussed the guidelines at an international seminar.ResultsThe data suggest overall agreement on the standards although many of the recommendations appear not (yet) to be embedded in everyday practice.ConclusionsAlthough large consensus exists on standards for early psychosocial care, a chasm between norms and practice appears to exist throughout the EU, stressing the general need for investments in guideline development and implementation.

Work-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other emotional diseases as consequence of traumatic events in public transportation: a systematic review

“…The general objective is to provide psychosocial basic care for victims. The effectiveness of this only rely on expert opinion (Creamer et al 2012;North and Pfefferbaum 2013) although peer-support systems in the workplace are being challenged by EU expert commission (Te Brake and Duckers 2013).…”

Psychosocial Crisis Management: The Unexplored Intersection of Crisis Leadership and Psychosocial Support

“…Experts agree upon the importance of providing affected people with a “supportive context,” which may include offering a listening ear, support and comfort, and being sensitive to immediate practical needs; offering practical and up‐to‐date information about the event; mobilizing support from one's own social environment; facilitating reunions with family and keeping them together; and reassuring people who are displaying stress reactions that their reactions are normal (Te Brake & Dückers, ). The notion of such a supportive context—which can be realized nationally or locally by government, businesses, and civil society actors—is reflected in three psychosocial principles: –provision of information and basic aid; –promote a sense of safety, calmness, self‐ and community efficacy, connectedness to others, and hope; –social acknowledgment. …”

“…Information about the crisis, causes, and consequences, especially those killed, missing, or relocated, but also information on the status of response and recovery processes, practical guidance, and possible health reactions, is highly valuable for people confronted by a disaster. The same applies to direct basic needs such as safety, emergency first aid, shelter, water, and food, and reunification with loved ones, friends, and family members (Bisson et al, ; Te Brake & Dückers, ).…”

“…Numerous publications are devoted to particular models, interventions, or approaches that are suggested to be helpful in addressing trauma-related problems in individuals and groups (e.g., Clark & Volmann, 2005;Everly, 2000;Hammond & Brooks, 2002;Mitchell & Everly, 2006). However, because of a lack of evidence contemporary international evidence-based guidelines do not recommend early preventive measures that go further than the strengthening of social support, provision of information, and timely detection of serious health problems (Australian Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health [ACPMH], 2013; Bisson et al, 2010;Juen et al, 2015;Te Brake & D€ uckers, 2013;World Health Organization [WHO], 2013).…”

The organization of post-disaster psychosocial support in the Netherlands: a meta-synthesis

“…Disasters can have enormous impacts on communities and individuals, often entailing negative consequences (Boin, 't Hart, Stern, & Sundelius, 2016;Bonanno, Brewin, Kaniasty, & La Greca, 2010;Dyb et al, 2014;Norris et al, 2002;Yzermans et al, 2005). The delivery of effective and organized post-disaster psychosocial support (PSS) can aid affected communities and individuals in dealing with the negative consequences of disasters (Bisson et al, 2010;Pfefferbaum & North, 2016;Reifels et al, 2013;Suzuki, Fukasawa, Nakajima, Narisawa, & Kim, 2012;Te Brake & Dückers, 2013;Vymetal et al, 2011). However, the delivery of services during and after disasters is often met with conditions of collective stress and uncertainty (Boin & Bynander, 2015;Comfort, 2007;Reifels et al, 2013;Rosenthal, Charles & 't Hart, 1989;Scholtens, 2008).…”