Neurological Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594112423014

• Palavras-chave: Post-traumatic stress disorder, Neuromodulation, Pharmacological Therapies, Psychotherapeutic Approaches.

• Keywords: Post-traumatic stress disorder, Neuromodulation, Pharmacological Therapies, Psychotherapeutic Approaches.

• Abstract:

  Objective: investigate and analyze, through scientific literature, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder(PTSD), in addition to identifying possible targets and therapeutic methods for the effective treatment of the condition Methods: Narrative literature review carried out from September to November 2023, through searches in the PubMed database using the search strategy((Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders) OR (PTSD)) AND ((Treatment) OR (Psychedelics) OR (Neuromodulation) OR (Virtual Reality) OR (Augmented Reality)). 2029 articles were found and, after the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 17 were selected to compose the study. Discussion: Different types of studies point to the influence of neuronal circuits in PTSD, demonstrating reductions in connectivity between the prefrontal cortex and subcortical structures, such as the amygdala and hippocampus. These brain changes are related to the emotional and memory symptoms that characterize or PTSD. Therefore, psychotherapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, functional release technique and trauma-focused behavioral therapy, associated with pharmacological treatment with serotonin reuptake inhibitors have proven to be effective in treating the disorder. Innovative neuromodulation treatments have also shown important results. Final considerations: It is essential to continue and develop studies and research to deepen the understanding of the mechanisms underlying PTSD and provide individualized treatment options for patients. Advancement in this field is essential to improve the quality of life of people affected by PTSD and, ultimately, to achieve more effective and complete treatments.