New DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for PTSD

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders provides standard criteria and common language for the classification of mental disorders. It is published by the American Psychiatric Association. The fifth revision (DSM-5) was released in May 2013. This revision includes changes to the diagnostic criteria for PTSD and Acute Stress Disorder. Click here for more information. In addition, click here for the new criteria on PTSD.

WHO Guidelines on conditions specifically related to stress

These new World Health Organisation mhGAP guidelines were developed to provide recommended management strategies for conditions specifically related to stress, including symptoms of acute stress, PTSD and bereavement. This link gives a summary and you then need to click on ‘Who Guidelines on Conditions specifically related to stress’ under ‘Publications’ in the right hand corner. Click here for more information.

The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS)

ISTSS is an international multidisciplinary, professional membership organization that promotes advancement and exchange of knowledge about severe stress and trauma. This knowledge includes understanding the scope and consequences of traumatic exposure, preventing traumatic events and ameliorating their consequences, and advocating for the field of traumatic stress. Click here for more information.

The European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ESTSS)

The European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, established in 1993, is the European network for professionals in the field of psychotraumatology. The ESTSS seeks to ensure continued prominence is given to all aspects of traumatic stress and its many repercussions. The ESTSS promotes networking between individuals and organisations within the field of psychotraumatology. Click here for more information.

National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE)

NICE is an independent organisation responsible for providing national guidance on promoting good health and preventing and treating ill health. Click here for more information.

The European Network for Traumatic Stress (TENTS)

The TENTS project is committed to the dissemination across Europe of evidence based practice for the assistance of victims of natural and other disasters. This project is funded by the European Commission, Directorate General Health and Consumer Protection (DG SANCO). Click here for more information.

ESTSS Uniformed Services Task Force

“The ESTSS task force for “Managing Trauma in the Uniformed Services” provides a 6 monthly newsletter, on-line resources and blog for professionals working with the armed forces, police and fire services.” Click here for more information.

PTSD helping lift the lid on PTSD – together

The University of Queensland, Australia has developed a website of evidenced based information on PTSD and its treatment. Click here for more information.