People with better wellbeing when exposed to trauma may have a lower PTSD risk

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2024-10-26 02:00

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People may be less likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if they had higher well-being before a traumatic event, according to a study of US veterans. Researchers used veteran survey data over a three-year period to investigate the well-being of nearly 1000 veterans across three categories; job satisfaction/work-life balance, financial well-being and social well-being. Looking at participants who reported experiencing a traumatic event between surveys, the researchers say better well-being across all three categories before the event was linked with a lower risk of probable PTSD. They say it's likely that it is easier to access the necessary support to cope with trauma while in a better work, financial and social situation.